BBB Issues Warning About Election Donation Text Scams
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – In the Heat of Election Season, Text Scams Abound
As election season steadily approaches, many individuals have reported receiving text messages soliciting donations for their preferred political parties or candidates. The Better Business Bureau (BBB), however, has issued a warning about such messages. According to the BBB, a number of these solicitation messages may actually be elaborate scams.
Fake Donation Texts vs. Real Solicitations: A Daunting Challenge
WBRC FOX6 News got in touch with the BBB to decipher ways of distinguishing between genuine donation texts, and those sent by scammers. According to Carl Bates, the president of the BBB, the reality is far more challenging than it seems. Text messages or phone calls from unknown numbers, especially those seeking financial contributions, can barely be verified for their authenticity. As such, Bates strongly advises against trusting these unknown numbers.
Dire Consequences of Clicking Unfamiliar Links
Bates recounts the events that transpired during the previous election cycle to stress the importance of online safety. Unfamiliar links sent out in text messages led unsuspecting individuals to problematic websites, triggering unforeseen issues with their devices. “I recall four years ago, we had some of these come out and when people clicked on the link, it took them to a pornography website and then they had issues because they had pornography on either their tablet or their laptop and it was really downloading malware to them as well… it’s just better as a rule not to click on links,” Bates explained.
How to Safely Donate to Political Parties or Candidates
For those wishing to make contributions to political parties or candidates, Bates offers a precautionary approach. Making direct donations through certified websites of the political parties or candidates is the safest option. Additionally, using a credit card for such transactions can provide an added layer of protection against potential fraud. Disputes arising from unauthorized or suspicious charges can be taken up with the credit card companies.
Stay Alert, Access Reliable Information and Safeguard Your Interests
In conclusion, the BBB urges caution among the public when dealing with politically themed text messages or phone calls. It is essential to stay informed of the potential risks and to access reliable sources of information when making political contributions. Protecting oneself from scams is the best bet to stay secure and exercise one’s democratic rights.
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