Whenever a major event like what we're seeing in Ukraine takes place, many people look for ways to help. Unfortunately, scammers take full advantage of this use names and create websites and social media accounts that are very similar to names of legitimate charities. Misinformation runs rampant. Scammers, and even well-meaning people, share information that has not been verified, particularly on social media.

WHAT TO DO: 
1) Use the following resources to help you research charities BEFORE YOU GIVE: BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, CharityWatch, and GuideStar. 

2) Before you pass along or share any information, make a donation, or share your personal information, do some fact-checking by going to the trusted sites just mentioned.
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If you don't know where to donate, here's a list of Better Business Bureau accredited charities currently working on Ukraine relief:

• Catholic Relief Services: BBB Wise Giving Alliance Report; Ukraine Relief Activities
• GlobalGiving: BBB Wise Giving Alliance Report; Ukraine Relief Activities
• International Rescue Committee: BBB Wise Giving Alliance Report; Ukraine Relief Activities
• Save the Children: BBB Wise Giving Alliance Report; Ukraine Relief Activities

If you’re still waiting for your Economic Impact Payments, you might be getting a debit card instead of a check in the mail. This, of course, is the money that’s meant to give relief due to the Coronavirus pandemic. You may have already gotten your payment by direct deposit or by check. But if you’re still waiting, watch your mailbox for either a check OR a VISA debit card. IMPORTANT REMINDER: the government will never, ever call, text, email, or ask you to click on a link they sent to activate your card or get your money. Here's the 101 (the 4-1-1, the "need to know", etc.) if your payment comes in the form of a debit card...

​Believe it or not, scammers take every opportunity at a time like this to collect our personal information and money. As online shopping and remote work increases, here are the current common Coronavirus scams according to the Federal Trade Commission and what to do about them:
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SCAM 1: Undelivered Goods. Scammers selling goods online claim they have high-demand items in stock. You place an order and never get your shipment. This is more and more common as anyone can set up shop and look like they’re selling legitimate products.
WHAT TO DO: Stick to sites you know and trust. Check out the seller by searching for previous customer reviews.  If you decide to buy, use a credit card to keep record of the transaction and make sure you see ""https" when you check out. If you’re concerned about the pricing of products in your area, contact your state consumer protection officials via www.naag.org .