Greg's Corner

Mayor warns of scams in wake of Highland Park tragedy

By Greg Collier

For the third time in three months, it’s with a heavy heart that we have to discuss potential charity scams in the wake of the tragedy that happened in Highland Park, Illinois.

As you’ve no doubt heard, a 22-year-old gunman fired on a crowd that was gathered for the Chicago suburb’s 4th of July parade. Seven people lost their lives, including the parents of a two-year-old boy. Scores more were injured in the during the chaos.

Again, in what has become even more common, the mayor of Highland Park has warned residents about potential fundraising scams during a press conference this week.

Many scammers take to the crowdfunding platform GoFundMe to set up fake accounts posing as victim’s families when a catastrophe like this happens. However, GoFundMe has stepped up and once again posted a list of verified fundraising campaigns that will go directly to those affected by the atrocity. If you find it in your heart to donate, you can find that list on GoFundMe’s website at this link.

However, there are other charity scams you need to look out for. Scammers love to cold call people, or send them unsolicited messages posing as a charity. These fake charities may have fake but official sounding names, or they might pose as a known charity resource like the Red Cross. You should not respond to any unsolicited communication as this has become the chief tool of the charity scammer.

To further avoid being scammed or not having your donation going to where it’s needed most, it’s best if you research the charity before giving any money. You can research most charities at Give.org which is maintained by the Better Business Bureau, or Charity Navigator.

I think I can safely speak for the entire staff of Geebo.com when I say that are deepest condolences go out to the residents of Highland Park and all those affected.

No one should ever have to go through this.