Smart Giving: How to Spot Charity Scams on Social Media

(3 Minute Read) — Scrolling through your feed, it’s easy to get inspired by causes that pull at your heartstrings, especially when they’re shared by people you trust. From natural disasters to personal fundraisers, social media has become a powerful platform for giving. But unfortunately, it’s also become a hotspot for scams. That’s where smart giving comes in.

At Unitus Community Credit Union, we believe in empowered giving. That means knowing where your money is going and making sure your generosity is truly making a difference, not lining a scammer’s pocket.

If you’re part of the Millennial or Gen Z crowd, chances are you’ve already made a donation through an app or social media platform. In fact, research shows that 41% of Gen Z and 25% of Millennials are motivated to donate by social media content (Team Allegiance), and younger generations are more likely to participate in crowdfunding and influencer-led fundraising efforts (NonProfit PRO). Let’s make sure that donation goes where you intend it to.

Here’s some smart giving tips:

1. Pause before you click “donate.”

Scammers often use emotional images, urgent language, or fake celebrity endorsements to pressure you into giving quickly. If something feels off, trust that instinct. Always research before you give.

2. Check the source.

Did a friend or influencer share the post? Great, but verify the original source. Scammers often create fake accounts that look real. Click through to the organization’s profile. Do they have a verified badge? Does the link go to a secure, legit website? If not, it’s a red flag.

3. Do a quick charity check.

Smart giving sites like Charity Navigator, Give.orgo Guidestar can confirm whether a nonprofit is legit. If it’s a personal fundraiser (like on GoFundMe), look for transparency, updates, and whether the organizer is connected to the person or cause they’re fundraising for.

4. Use secure payment methods.

Don’t donate through wire transfers, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or any payment method that’s hard to trace. If you’re using your Unitus debit or credit card, make sure the site is secure (look for “https”) and keep an eye on your transactions in digital banking.

5. Report suspicious accounts.

If you see a sketchy fundraiser or fake profile, report it through the platform. Your vigilance helps protect others in your community, and that’s something to feel good about.

Social media has made it easier than ever to support causes that matter. But giving with your heart should never come at the expense of your financial safety. By staying informed and taking a moment to verify before donating, you can help create a culture of trust and real impact.

At Unitus, we’re here to back you up — whether you’re building your first budget, donating to a favorite nonprofit, or looking for smart ways to give back consistently. Your generosity is powerful. Let’s make sure it goes exactly where you want it to.