Fake charities are organizations that pretend to be legitimate charities but do not use donations for their stated purposes. Instead, they often pocket the money for personal gain or fund unrelated activities. These scams can take many forms, including phone calls, emails, or social media campaigns that solicit donations under false pretenses. To avoid falling victim to fake charities, it is essential to research any organization before donating. Look for charity watchdogs that evaluate and rate charities based on their transparency and financial practices. Always verify that the charity is registered and has a good reputation to ensure your contributions are used effectively.