Police issue urgent warning: $100K+ losses from ‘aggressive’ fraudulent charity scams

The Boston Police Departmen t is alerting the public of ongoing charity scams , often targeting women and claiming to secure funds for a "deceased child," or other related charity.

So far, the BPD said it has received at least 11 reports of these "fraudulent charity scams," — amounting to $170,700 in losses with similar schemes happening at the national level.

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"In these cases, one to three male suspects have approached female victims in parking lots, claiming to collect donations for a deceased child or a related charity," the police warn.

"The suspects are described as Black males, ages 20–40, approximately 5'10", with long hair (possibly braids or dreadlocks). One suspect has a red tattoo above the left eye."

These scammers have used mobile payment devices and "aggressive tactics," to secure payment.

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The BPD said the fraudsters handle the victim's phones or credit cards before charging anywhere between $4,000 and $50,000 in unauthorized payments.

But the charity scam isn't the only scheme relying on these payment devices.

The BPD said they have also been notified of several "younger male suspects," near South Station claiming to be selling candy bars or collecting donations for football.

Similarly, the younger suspects are using "aggressive behavior," and card readers to secure unauthorized payment.

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BPD advises the public not to hand their phone or credit cards over to anyone, verify charitable organizations before donating and create distance and report suspicious activity if someone approaches you.

The public can provide anonymous tips to the BPD through the CrimeStoppers Tip Line by:

• Phone: 1-800-494-TIPS

• ext: Text "TIP" to CRIME (27463)

• Online: Boston Police CrimeStoppers

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