A new phishing scam, disguised as a charitable offer from the “Donald Trump Foundation,” is targeting individuals, particularly in Africa, with the promise of a $200 cash giveaway. The scam lures victims by claiming they’ve been selected for a special grant and in the end they end up scammed.
How the Scam Works
- The scam typically begins with unsolicited messages via email, SMS, or social media. The message claims that the recipient has been chosen to receive a $200 grant from the Donald Trump Foundation and they are told to visit a website to claim the grant.
- Once they click the link, they’re taken to a fake website that mimics a Trump Foundation page. Here, they are prompted to fill out personal information such as their name, address, phone number, etc.
- After doing this, the victims are then forced to share the link to several groups and friends in order to unlock the cash reward.
- After providing personal information and sharing the link with more friends, the victims are told their grant will be processed soon but they never receive the promised funds. The scammers, having collected the victims’ personal data and money, disappear without a trace.
How to Avoid Falling Victim
- Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers: If you receive an unexpected message claiming you’ve won money or grants, especially from well-known figures like Donald Trump, be cautious. Legitimate organizations don’t give out money randomly without application or verification.
- Verify the Source: Always verify offers by checking the official websites of organizations. In this case, the Trump Foundation does not offer random grants, and any message claiming otherwise is likely a scam.
- Don’t Share Sensitive Information: Never provide personal details, such as bank account numbers, national ID numbers, or passwords, on websites you haven’t verified.
- Watch for Red Flags: Look for signs of phishing, such as suspicious email addresses, poor grammar, or fake-looking websites. Also, avoid clicking on links from unknown senders.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a scam, report it to local authorities or anti-fraud organizations to help prevent others from falling victim.
By staying alert and cautious, you can avoid falling for this deceptive scam and protect your personal information.
