While the vast majority of fundraising efforts are genuine, the UK regulatory bodies warn that fraudsters may use the holy month as an opportunity to deceive unsuspecting donors
As Ramadan begins, millions of pounds are expected to be raised by Muslims across Britain in a spirit of generosity and giving. However, with this increased charitable activity comes the risk of fraudulent organisations seeking to exploit donors’ goodwill. In response, the Muslim Charities Forum (MCF), the Fundraising Regulator, and the Charity Commission for England and Wales have launched a campaign urging people to stay vigilant and ensure their donations reach legitimate causes.
While the vast majority of fundraising efforts are genuine, regulatory bodies warn that fraudsters may use the holy month as an opportunity to deceive unsuspecting donors. Fake charities, fraudulent appeal websites, and impersonation scams via email and social media are among the most common tactics used to mislead well-intentioned givers. With public trust and critical funds at stake, officials are calling for greater awareness and precautionary measures to protect charitable contributions.
Ramadan is a key period for charitable giving among Muslims, as the month holds deep spiritual significance and the promise of additional rewards for acts of kindness. The heightened willingness to give, however, has also made it a prime target for fraudulent activity. The collaborative campaign by MCF, the Fundraising Regulator, and the Charity Commission aims to equip donors with the knowledge and tools needed to safeguard their contributions.
A crucial step in ensuring donations go to legitimate causes is verifying a charity’s credentials. The Charity Commission advises donors to check the charity’s name and registration number on the official Charity Register, where organisations with an annual income of £5,000 or more are required to be listed. Another key safeguard is avoiding unsolicited financial requests and thoroughly researching an organisation before committing funds. If an appeal seems suspicious, donors are encouraged to contact the charity directly or visit its official website for more information.
Online and digital scams are also a growing concern. Regulators warn against responding to suspicious emails, texts, or social media messages that request donations, particularly those containing links that could lead to fraudulent websites. Donors should also look for the Fundraising Regulator’s badge, which signifies that an organisation has committed to ethical and transparent fundraising practices.
For those giving to charity collectors in person, it is advisable to confirm that they have a valid licence issued by the relevant local authority or, in Greater London, by the Metropolitan Police. If at any point donors suspect that a collection or appeal is not legitimate, they are urged to report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or submitting an online report.
Fadi Itani OBE, CEO of the Muslim Charities Forum, emphasised the importance of balancing generosity with caution. He noted that while giving during Ramadan is a deeply valued tradition, donors must take steps to ensure their contributions are protected. By pausing to verify a charity’s legitimacy, he explained, donors can have confidence that their funds are reaching those in genuine need and supporting effective charities making a tangible difference.
David Holdsworth, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, highlighted the critical role that charitable donations during Ramadan play in supporting millions of people. He stressed that with thousands of registered charities in England and Wales, donors have many trustworthy options. Checking a charity’s registration, he added, is an essential step in ensuring funds are directed to reputable organisations that comply with legal and ethical standards.
Gerald Oppenheim, Chief Executive of the Fundraising Regulator, echoed these sentiments, pointing out that while the Muslim community’s generosity during Ramadan funds vital work, it also attracts those who seek to exploit this goodwill. He encouraged donors to carry out a few simple checks before donating to guarantee that their contributions are being used for their intended purpose. He also reassured the public that charities displaying the Fundraising Badge adhere to high standards of legal, open, and ethical fundraising.
With donations during Ramadan playing a crucial role in tackling poverty, supporting humanitarian aid, and funding community projects, it is essential that charitable giving remains both encouraged and protected. Regulators are calling on the public to remain alert, take necessary precautions, and ensure their donations make a real and lasting impact.
