Emotional appeals and time-sensitive requests are used to pressure donors.
A disturbing trend of fraudulent activities masquerading as legitimate Muslim charities has surfaced, exploiting the trust and generosity of communities in the UK, USA, and across Europe. These scams, often amplified through live TV appeals and sophisticated online platforms, are siphoning off millions of pounds intended for vulnerable individuals and humanitarian causes.
A growing trend sees also British Bangladeshi community donations directed overseas, often via third parties, while neglecting needy relatives back home. Islamic teachings prioritize the rights of impoverished family members.
"While charitable giving to distant communities is commendable, it's essential to remember the Quran's emphasis on prioritizing those closest to us, particularly needy relatives. A growing trend sees individuals directing Zakat through third-party organizations to foreign lands, sometimes neglecting the pressing needs within their own families. As the Quran states in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:215): 'They ask you, [O Muhammad], what they should spend. Say, "Whatever good you [spend] is for parents and relatives and orphans and the needy and the traveler. And whatever you do of good - indeed, Allah is ever knowing of it."'" This verse serves as a gentle reminder that the rights of our kin hold a significant place in Islamic charity- told by an activist from British Bangladeshi community."
The Muslim Charities Forum (MCF), the Fundraising Regulator, and the Charity Commission for England and Wales have produced joint recommendations to assist Muslims in England and Wales in protecting their donations and gifts and ensuring that they reach the intended beneficial causes. According to Fadi Itani OBE, CEO of the Muslim Charities Forum, giving during Ramadan always increases since the month has added spiritual value and reward. We urge Muslim donors to continue giving freely, but with prudence. Stopping to consider before donating ensures that valuable monies reach individuals in true need, have a real influence in the battle against poverty, and, most importantly, assist effective charities in their ongoing praiseworthy efforts to improve the lives of vulnerable people." According to Fadi Itani OBE, CEO of the Muslim Charities Forum, giving during Ramadan always increases since the month has added spiritual value and reward. We urge Muslim donors to continue giving freely, but with prudence. Stopping to consider before donating ensures that valuable monies reach individuals in true need, have a real influence in the battle against poverty, and, most importantly, assist effective charities in their ongoing praiseworthy efforts to improve the lives of vulnerable people."
Investigations reveal a pattern of deceptive practices, including:
Fraudulent charities or individuals fabricate heart-wrenching stories of hardship, suffering, and desperate need to manipulate emotions and solicit donations. These appeals often feature staged or stolen images of starving children, injured war victims, or displaced families to make them appear legitimate. Social media, emails, and crowdfunding platforms are frequently used to amplify these deceptive campaigns. In some cases, scammers even impersonate real victims or create fictitious ones to attract sympathy and funds.
Funds are raised for seemingly noble causes, such as constructing mosques, schools, hospitals, or providing humanitarian aid to disaster-stricken or war-torn regions. However, these projects either do not exist or remain incomplete, with donors receiving fake updates, photos, or progress reports to maintain the illusion of legitimacy. Many fraudulent charities claim to be supporting refugees, orphans, and impoverished communities, but upon investigation, no tangible work is found.
Rather than being used for the stated charitable purposes, donations are siphoned for personal gain. This includes luxury travel, expensive cars, real estate, or even illegal activities. Some fraudulent organizations operate under the guise of charity while funneling funds into offshore accounts, financing political agendas, or even supporting extremist groups. Lack of financial transparency and proper oversight enables such schemes to continue unchecked.
During religious or culturally significant periods, such as Ramadan, live television charity appeals create a heightened sense of urgency, leading people to donate impulsively. High-profile figures, emotional storytelling, and dramatic visuals are used to pressure viewers into giving. In some cases, fake call-in testimonials from supposed beneficiaries or exaggerated claims about impact are used to encourage more donations. Later, these funds are often misused or disappear with little accountability.
Sophisticated websites and social media campaigns are used to create a veneer of legitimacy, complete with fake testimonials and fabricated financial reports.
"It's a betrayal of the highest order," says Imam Yusuf, a community leader in Birmingham. "These fraudsters are preying on the very essence of our faith – charity and compassion. They are not only stealing money but also eroding the trust that is vital for genuine charitable work."
The impact of these scams extends beyond financial losses. Genuine Muslim charities, often struggling to secure funding, are facing increased scrutiny and skepticism. "We're being tarred with the same brush," explains Fatima Khan, a representative of a reputable aid organization. "People are hesitant to donate, even to well-established charities, because they've been burned before."
Community Outrage: Muslim communities across Europe and North America have expressed outrage and condemnation of these fraudulent activities. Many are calling for stricter regulations and greater transparency in charitable fundraising.
Regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies are stepping up their efforts to investigate and prosecute those involved in these scams.
Experts are urging donors to exercise caution when giving online, verifying the legitimacy of charities through independent sources and avoiding impulsive donations based on emotional appeals.
Many Muslim leaders urge for more transparency from charities, suggesting that they must provide easily accessible financial reports.
The damage done to the trust between donators and charities will take time to repair.
"We must be vigilant," says a spokesperson from the Charity Commission in the UK. "Donors have a right to know where their money is going. We encourage everyone to check the charity's registration and financial history before making a donation."
The rise of these fraudulent charities highlights the need for greater awareness and due diligence within Muslim communities. It also underscores the importance of supporting reputable organizations that are committed to transparency and accountability. The actions of a few are causing great harm to many, and the long term effects of the damage to trust is yet to be fully realized.
Fraudsters capitalize on the generosity and religious obligation of Muslims to give to charity (Zakat).
This often occurs through:
Increased Risk During Ramadan: The heightened charitable activity during Ramadan creates opportunities for fraudulent actors.
Emotional appeals and time-sensitive requests are used to pressure donors.
Online and Digital Fraud: The rise of online giving has increased the prevalence of digital fraud, including phishing scams and fake charity websites.
UK Charity Commission: They issue warnings about fraudulent charity appeals, especially during Ramadan.They advise donors to verify a charity's registration before donating.They have reported cases of fake websites and email appeals that falsely use the names of legitimate charities.
Islamic Relief: They have reported instances of scammers impersonating them to solicit donations. They have given examples of websites that falsely claim to be affiliated with them.
MATW Project, Muslims Around The World- They have also released information regarding people using their name and logo to fraudulently obtain donations.
Fundraising Regulator- They also give out warnings about safe giving to charities during Ramadan.
"Many Muslim charities face accusations of impurity," observed Reza Ahmad Faisol Chowdhury Shoeb, former managing director of Channel I Europe, which was shut down during the Awami League government's tenure. He told Daily Dazzling Dawn "Personally, when I managed a TV channel, I always sought follow-up reports from charity appeals to track fund usage. While not all charities operate this way, it underscores the need for universal integrity, encompassing everyone, including broadcasters."
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