The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is warning the community's residents of a growing scam known as the "Good Samaritan", a scam which preys on its victims emotions and empathy. 

According to deputies, the scammer calls their victims from an unknown number, possibly displaying a company name on the caller id, the scammer claims to represent a charity seeking urgent donations using a recent disaster or some type of "worthy cause". 

The scam is to play on the victims emotions and empathy, often using displaced children, pets, or distressed communities. The scammer pressures their victims into making an immediate donation to the cause.

Deputies say if the victim hesitates, the scammer becomes more persistent in asking for the victim to make donations.

"THIS IS A SCAM", the Washoe County Sheriff warns, legitimate charities do not pressure people into making rushed donations. 

To protect the community and keep you safe from being a victim of such a scam, deputies have provided some tips offered by the FBI:

  • Donate to trusted, established charities with a proven track record.
  • Be cautious of organizations with names similar to reputable ones, as scammers often use variations of well-known charity names to trick people.
  • Be skeptical of new organizations claiming to assist victims of recent disasters or emergencies.
  • Research charities using trusted resources such as the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) website and Charity Navigator to ensure their legitimacy.
  • Donate through secure methods like checks or credit cards. If you are asked for cash, gift cards, virtual currency, or wire transfers, it is highly likely to be a scam.

Additional red flags include the scammers insisting on your quick action stating the window to make a donation is limited, refusing to provide written information about the charity and pressuring you to donate before you can verify any of the information they have provided, as well as using high-pressure tactics, threatening you with guilt or regret for not donating immediately.

If you suspect a scam or have become victim to one, make an immediate report to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office or your local authorities. You can also make a report of suspected fraud to the FTC at http://www.ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office reminds the community to stay informed, stay alert, and protect yourself and your community from fraud. Legitimate charities will always respect your decision to donate thoughtfully and at your own pace.