Scammers are increasing, be wary of calls

VERMONT- A new scam is targeting Vermont attorneys. The Attorney General’s Office warns that a fake “GoFundMe” campaign purports to raise money for a child with a rare disease using GoFundMe.com. According to the Vermont Bar Association, the phony campaign referenced its organization and requested that VBA members make contributions. GoFundMe.com is a popular online fundraising platform.
In light of the scam, the attorney general reminds Vermonters of GoFundMe’s guidance for spotting fake campaigns.
The guidance lists four questions that the recipient of the GoFundMe request should be able to answer:
How is the campaign organizer related to the intended recipient of the donations? What is the purpose of the campaign and how will the funds be used? Are direct family and friends making donations and leaving supportive comments? Is the intended recipient in control of the withdrawals? If not, is there a clear path for the funds to reach them?
The guidance explains that if the campaign does include the above points, but the recipient is still unclear, the recipient should ask: Does the GoFundMe include intentionally misleading or factually incorrect information?, Are the funds not being used for the stated purpose within a reasonable amount of time including withholding funds from the beneficiary? Is the GoFundMe impersonating someone else and/or copying their story? Is the GoFundMe violating any of the website’s terms and conditions?
To report suspected scams to the attorney general’s consumer assistance program call (800) 649-2424 or e-mail at AGO.CAP@vermont.gov.  The Vermont Bar Association may be reached at (802) 223-2020.