Red Cross Warns Of Earthquake Donation Scams

New Zealand Red Cross is concerned about the emergence of fraudulent emails and websites that are designed to take advantage of the public’s generosity toward the people of Christchurch.

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs alerted the Red Cross to a scam email, directing people to a fake ‘Red Cross’ phishing website where people are asked for their credit card details.

“Red Cross and other agencies are working extremely hard to offer all the support we can to the people of Christchurch. Our recovery operation will be the largest in New Zealand Red Cross’s history and we’ll need all the financial support we can muster. It is disappointing and frustrating that scammers are trying to take advantage of the public’s generosity at this devastating time,” says New Zealand Red Cross’ Chief Executive John Ware.

New Zealand Red Cross is working closely with the Ministry of Consumer Affairs and the Government’s cyber crime unit.

Red Cross limits the use of its emblem to official fundraising activity with its branches, members, partners, banks and approved organizations.

“We will not be sending emails out asking for donations for this Appeal. If people are concerned they may have given money to a fraudulent web site, they should contact their bank immediately, “ says Mr Ware.

“We urge online donors to be vigilant and make sure they donate within the Red Cross website only, and to check that the donation page is secure.”

Red Cross staff and volunteers will be involved in a range of fundraising activities nationwide in the coming week. Approved collectors will have Red Cross identification which could include Red Cross branded collection boxes or bags and official stickers.

Please go to www.redcross.org.nz for more information on how to protect yourself from scammers.

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