Police charity imposters: Watch out for donation scam phone calls

MILWAUKEE — As Milwaukee tries to make sense of the unrest over the weekend, many people may be inspired to give back. Unfortunately, there are other people ready to take advantage of that.

People are receiving phone scam calls asking for donations to help out local police departments or slain and wounded police offers. If you get one of these calls, do not donate money — just hang up.

These types of charity phone scams are all too common. The scammers will say they're associated with police, firefighter or even the military, but give little details about their organization.

The scammer will ask for money and, often times, is pushy or aggressive with their request.

If you get one of these calls take a moment to think about who your are giving to and ask the right questions.

"You need to take some time and do your homework. the first ask you get - may not be the best ask…What's the percentage of your donation that's going to go to the cause instead of the overhead of raising money," advised Jim Temmer, the CEO of Wisconsin Better Business Bureau.

If you're unsure if a fundraising effort or charity is legitimate, here's a few things you can do:

The BBB makes it easier to find out more about a charity with the BBB Wise Giving Alliance. You can look up charities by click HERE.