Southwell warns of scam targeting donors through staff impersonators

TIFTON, Ga. (WALB) — Tifton businesses are the latest target in a scam claiming to collect donations for those in need.

Tift Regional Medical Centers, Case Management Department employees are being impersonated, according to Southwell.

Southwell said scammers are calling Tifton businesses asking for donations to help patients that need special assistance. Tift Regional Medical Center urges the public to avoid the scam and use caution when making any donations.

According to Southwell, any fundraising efforts the hospital has are done through the Tift Regional Medical Center Foundation and the Georgia HEART program.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends doing the following steps before any donation is made:

• Search for the Cause you care about
• Check out the charities website
• Find out if the charity is registered here.
• Check to see if the donation will be tax deductible.
• Don’t rush to donate
• Carefully research the Charity
• Watch for sentimental claims with few details
• Avoid donating if a prize is guaranteed

The FTC encourages donors to use secure payment methods. Avoid donating through cryptocurrency, wiring money through Western Union, Money Gram, gift cards, and payment apps.

The FTC recommends donating with a credit card or with a check. Once a donation is made, the FTC encourages donors to review bank accounts and credit card statements.

Charity scams can be reported to the FTC here.

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