Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Scammers Using War To Steal Donations Through Fake E-mails, Charity Websites; How To Spot It

(Photo : ISSOUF SANOGO/AFP via Getty Images)
The Russian invasion of Ukraine drives millions of people into difficult situations that prompted humanitarian efforts across the globe. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of the people’s desire to do charity for the victims of the military conflict.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine drives millions of people into difficult situations that prompted humanitarian efforts across the globe. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of the people's desire to do charity for the victims of the military conflict.

According to Slovakia-based antivirus firm ESET, fake charity websites have also emerged, with designs using the colors of the Ukrainian flag and dramatic images of war. According to experts at the company, these websites solicit donations, but they do not specify how the financial aid will be utilized.

CNET reported that e-mail scams ask for donations in US dollars and cryptocurrencies. Other bogus e-mails ask recipients to send money to help children or buy weapons for the Ukrainian military.

Beware of Scams

USA Today reports some common types of scams that the public should be aware of. A common scam is the "Help, help, I'm stuck here," wherein a con artist poses as a family member or acquaintance, claiming to be stranded and in desperate need of money. Some thieves even alter images to convince a potential victim that they are really in the war areas.

Another type of scam is the "We need your support more than ever," in which crooks use fake humanitarian relief campaigns via GoFundMe pages or other digital means such as phone calls, e-mails, banner ads, and text messages asking for donations.

These communications, on the other contrary, are frequently sent out by cybercriminals looking to profit from the current chaos.

The funeral scam emerges during national tragedies, natural disasters, and conflict. These are "requests" for money to bury departed family members or pay for plane tickets to attend a funeral. It touches emotions that is why many people fall for this ploy.

If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a US soldier trapped in Ukraine, think twice because the "defending your liberty" scam also appeals to one's love for the country. The scammer begs for financial aid or help in sending a message to their family.

Think Before Giving a Donation

To protect your finances and avoid scams, said Adam Levin, co-host of the "What the Hack with Adam Levin" podcast, shares some helpful tips:

He advises against clicking on a link that "requires an immediate or emotional response." Do research first before giving.

The expert said that it is helpful to look up the charity campaign via websites "BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator or CharityWatch and read online reviews."

Levin also said never donate via gift cards or wire transfers and always par with a credit card, which adds extra layers of security rather than a debit card.

Also, regularly check your accounts for any suspicious activity or illegal charges and set up notifications through your bank or a banking app to watch your credit card transactions and notify you of account activity. There is a possibility that when someone obtains your payment information, "they are going to use it again and again," according to the podcast host.

If you think you fell victim to a scam, per CNBC, it is recommended to contact your bank right away and notify your state's attorney general and the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center.