With the holiday giving season underway, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and the Department of Financial Institutions are urging donors to stay vigilant ahead of Giving Tuesday on December 2nd. Officials say scammers often take advantage of people’s generosity this time of year by using emotional appeals, fake websites, and high-pressure tactics.
They recommend researching charities before donating, confirming contact information, and asking how donations are used. Donors should avoid unsolicited texts or emails, be wary of AI-generated celebrity endorsements, and steer clear of payment methods that can’t be reversed, like wire transfers or gift cards. Instead, use credit cards or checks made out directly to the organization.
Reliable resources such as Give.org, CharityNavigator.org, and DFI’s Wisconsin Registrant Database can help verify legitimate charities. For more consumer protection information or to file a complaint, visit ConsumerProtection.wi.gov or call the DATCP hotline.
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