Since the earthquake in Haiti, there have been many campaigns of a charitable nature aimed at helping those in need, the homeless and the hungry. Millions of pounds have been raised by legitimate non-profit organisations trying to give aid to those who need it. But shadier characters have also got in on the action. According to the BBC (“E-mail scams exploiting Haiti earthquake generosity“) there has been a surge in e-mail scams from people claiming to be from various charities, some even purporting to be from legitimately registered charities, seeking money to “help the victims”. Yet research has shown it’s just another in a long line of internet scams. Clearly if you get such an e-mail, you should view it with some scepticism, if you’re unsure, check with the Charity Commission to see if the charity is registered and contact their main office. E-mails from “charities” with mobile phone numbers are clearly to be avoided.
If you are thinking of setting up a legitimate charity to help those in Haiti who need it or for any other reason, The Company Warehouse has a charity formation service to help you get started. Take a look at our page on “How To Start a Charity” to see what’s required and how to get the process started. Make sure you do what’s required of you and are properly registered to avoid being tainted by these fake charity bodies.
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