Year-End Charity Scams: How To Avoid Them

(Flickr User Skyloader/CC)

Here's how not to be taken advantage of:

• Do a keyword search online for the name of the charity asking you for a donation, along with the word "complaints."
• Don't give your financial information, or any personal information, to anyone or organization you haven't checked out first.
• Do be wary of folks asking for donations at your door right after a headline-making crisis. Stick with your tried-and-true recipients.
• Don't send cash or wire money to anyone or any organization seeking a donation. That's a big red flag.
• Do take time to think about your donation, and don't fall for a hard sell if someone comes knocking at your door.
• Don't donate to enter into a sweepstakes; understand that it is against the law to seek donations in that manner.
• Do contact authorities with tips, or if you've given money to a fraudulent operation.

Here's who to contact:

• The Colorado Division of Securities website | phone: 303-894-2320
• The Colorado Attorney General's website | phone: 800-222-4444