CHARITY FRAUD

Charity fraud does a lot of harm. The con artist takes advantage of people's good will and takes their cash - money that was meant for people in need. You can make sure that any money you give gets into the right hands. Just remember these tips when somebody asks you for a donation.

·         Ask for identification - the organization AND the solicitor. Find out what the purpose of the charity is and how funds are used.

·         Ask if contributions are tax deductible.

·         If you're not satisfied with the answers-don't give.

·         Give to charities that you know.

·         Check out the ones you've never heard of before, or others whose names are similar to a well-known charity.

·         Don't fall for high-pressure tactics. If solicitors won't take no for an answer, tell them NO anyway - BUT DON'T GIVE THEM YOUR MONEY.

·         Be suspicious of charities that only accept cash.

·         Always send a check made out to the charity and not the individual requesting the donation.

THE PIGEON DROP

A person approaches you and says that he just found a large amount of money. What should he do with it? Maybe his "boss" can suggest something. He then leaves to check with his "boss" and comes back a few minutes later. His boss said to divide the money, but first, each of you must put up some, "good faith money". Once you hand over your share, you'll never see it or the con artist again.

INTERNET BUYING SAFETY

·         Despite these many concerns, some now argue that it is actually safer to buy online than buying over the phone or handing your credit card over to someone in a shop. This is because if the online payment is handled properly your banking details will be "encrypted", which means they cannot be viewed by anyone other than those handling the transaction - usually the banks.

·         Print out your order and consider keeping copies of the retailer's terms and conditions and returns policy. Be aware that there may well be additional charges such as postage and VAT. When buying from overseas always err on the side of caution and remember that it may be difficult to seek redress if problems arise.

·         Check statements from your bank or card issuer carefully as soon as you receive them. Raise any discrepancies with the retailer concerned in the first instance. If you find any transaction on your statement that you are certain you did not make, contact your card issuer immediately.

·         Ensure that you are fully aware of any payment commitments you are entering into, including whether you are instructing a single payment or a series of payments.

·         Never disclose your card's PIN number to anyone, including people claiming to be from your bank or the police, and never write it down or send it over the Internet.

·         If you have any doubts about using your card, find another method of payment

Parents...

·         Define what a STRANGER is. Let your kids know that just because they see someone everyday (e.g. mailman, paperboy, neighbor, etc.) it does not mean these people are not strangers.

·         Teach your children their full name, your name, full address, and phone number, including area codes. Teach them how to use a phone.

·         Teach your children the "What if...?" Game, making up different dangerous situations that they might encounter and helping them play out what they would do in that situation.

·         Take the time to talk to your children and be alert to any noticeable changes in their behavior or attitude toward an adult or teenager; it may be a sign of sexual abuse.

·         Teach your children that their body is private and no one has the right to touch them in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable. If anyone touches them in a wrong way they should: SAY NO, GET AWAY, and TELL SOMEONE they trust.