Police Charity Scams are active in Boston too. It really is everywhere

Mar 4, 2010 4:34 pm US/Eastern

Boston Police Warn Of Phony Charity Scam

BOSTON (WBZ) ― 

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The Boston Police Department has sent out a community alert warning individuals to be vigilant of fraudulent charitable solicitors claiming to assist the police. 

Somebody is contacting would be donors to solicit money on behalf of the 'Boston Police Patrolmen's Union Widow and Orphan' fund. 

This fund does not exist and is not associated with the Boston Police Patrolmen's Union. 

Police are encouraging donors to do their homework before agreeing to support a charity organization. 

To ensure the legitimacy of a charitable solicitor, police urge: 

• When solicited by phone, be sure to get the full name, address and phone number of the charity.
• Remember that unscrupulous callers will attempt to get your money fast and will often ask for a credit card number or offer to send a courier before you can change your mind.
• Ask to be sent written materials about the charity. An organization that refuses should be considered a warning sign.
• Find out the purpose of the charity, the amount raised, percentage of your donation that goes to the charity and the percentage used for administrative costs.

If you have been victimized by this scam, investigators ask you to contact authorities atvictims.bpd@cityofboston.com.