Charity Fraud Most mail solicitations for charitable contributions are legitimate appeals for a good cause. Some are phony. Charity fraud does a lot of harm. The swindler takes advantage of people’s good will and takes their cash — money meant for people in need. Give to charities you know. Check out the ones you have never heard of, or whose names are similar to well-known charities. Also: Be suspicious of charities that accept only cash. Always make out your check or money order to the organization to which you want to donate money, not to an individual.