iYogi Alerts: Beware of Online Charity Fraud

April 21, 2011

What is online charity fraud? A scam that fools you by collecting donations for personal gain

New York, NY, April 21, 2011 – iYogi, the provider of on-demand remote tech support services, has released an alert on charity fraud that preys on innocent victims by asking them to contribute sums of money in the name of philanthropy. The perpetrators of this kind of fraud convince people to donate sums of money in the name of different types of charity that presumably benefit impoverished children, victims of natural disasters, elderly and homeless people, etc. In these cases, of course, the money never benefits the stated cause but ends up in the pockets of the fraudsters. This edition of ”iYogi Fraud Alerts” attempts to caution readers to not become victims of fraud while trying to do good for others.

Research by iYogi and feedback from the large subscriber base; show that perpetrators of such fraud often use tragic events and situations to win compassion and empathy from donors. The fraudsters also construct fake identity and documents confirming their registration and legitimacy. As a result, the victims find it difficult to catch hold of the fraudster as they fail to verify the recognition of the charity group. Another tell-tale sign is that appeals are always for cash rather than donations in kind like food or other necessities. Sending out e-mails and messages to personal accounts in which they ask for donations is another approach these criminals use to cheat people.

Below is the list of do”s and don’ts to keep in mind while donating to charities:

• Before opting to donate to a charity group, it is important to get acquainted with the group by researching its name, address, phone number, establishment details and other fund raising history of the group.
• Avoid responding to any group that asks for a cash donation online.
• Be skeptical about any recently established charity group or people who claim to work for police officers, veterans etc.
• Many tend to collect charity in the name of some well established charity firm. In these cases, cross check with the main office to inquire if any such donation collection is being carried out.
• No charity group is supposed to ask for your bank account number and other details. Therefore, any charity approaching you with this request should be immediately reported.

What iYogi has to say:

“Unfortunately, these charity-related online scams often prey upon victims when they are at their most vulnerable and trusting times. We are just saying that using a little bit of caution and research can prevent fraud and allow people to continue to donate generously to worthy and legitimate causes in time of need,” says Vishal Dhar, President, Marketing and Co-founder of iYogi.

About iYogi

iYogi is a global on-demand services company that provides personalized computer support for consumers and small businesses in United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia. iYogi”s unique model, including proprietary iMantra technology and highly qualified technicians, is designed to eliminate computer-related stress and keep of digitally dependent consumers and small businesses protected and productive. iYogi — with its proven global expertise delivery model, intelligent customer insight systems, easy-to-use self-help tools and automated PC optimization and computer support services – offers users a simple yet comprehensive path to digital serenity. iYogi has perfected the remote technical support model to overcome the current limitations of in-store, on-site, or call center services. Major resellers and technology companies are turning to iYogi to improve customer satisfaction, reduce return rates, and deliver a compelling new-value added offering to customers. For more information on iYogi and a detailed list of technologies supported, visit: http://www.iyogi.com.

Media Contact:
Chelsea Irwin
GlobalFluency
(650) 433-4163
cirwin@globalfluency.com