Following concerns about local fundraising activity, residents are being advised to take extra care when making charitable donations and to ensure any contribution is going to a legitimate cause.
While many charities rely on public generosity, this goodwill can potentially be exploited to obtain money or personal and financial information. Taking a few moments to verify who is asking for a donation can help ensure funds reach the intended charity.
Whilst the advice applies in many situations, the warning also follows reports of a fundraiser operating across the borough. This includes one incident in which a resident lost £5,000 after agreeing to make a £10 charity donation.
The resident reported that, after the payment initially appeared to be 'declined', they were asked to enter their PIN a second time before the transaction was 'successful'. When the resident later checked their banking app, they discovered £5,000 had been debited from their account.
Check before you donate:
Whether approached in the street, at the doorstep, online or over the phone, residents are encouraged to take time before making any donation.
Genuine fundraisers should be able to provide identification and details of the charity they represent. If there is any doubt, donations should be made directly through the charity's official website or contact details obtained independently.
In London, street and doorstep charity collections require permits issued by the Metropolitan Police.
How to protect yourself:
- Never feel pressured into donating on the spot. It is okay to say no and take time to make checks.
- Ask for identification and details of the organisation being represented.
- Be particularly cautious of collectors who request cash only or become pushy when questioned.
- Never provide a card PIN, security code or sensitive banking information when setting up a donation.
- Carefully review any paperwork before agreeing to a regular payment or direct debit.
- Be vigilant when approached online or by telephone and never click links in unexpected messages.
- If unsure, contact the charity directly using contact details found independently before making a donation.
Report and resources:
Contact your bank on 159 if you are concerned about any payment that you have made
Report concerns relating to charity donations and permits on 101 or via email to charities@met.police.uk
Visit the Met Police website for advice about charity collection licensing
Check that a charity is registered with the Charity Commission on the GOV website
The Fundraising Regulator website provides public advice on giving safely to charity
The Fundraising Regulator also shares advice on how to end contact with charities that you no longer want to hear from
For advice and support on how to protect yourself from charity fraud, visit the Report Fraud website
If you have shared personal or financial information, the ICO website and the Report Fraud website offer guidance on identity theft
Bromley Trading Standards
To keep up with the latest scam alerts and warnings from Bromley Trading Standards sign up on www.bromley.gov.uk/TradingStandardsAlertSignUpForm.
Bromley Trading Standards also runs a fair-trader directory to help you find a safe, reliable trader that you can trust, visit www.bromley.gov.uk/tradingstandardschecked to learn more.