When using Crowdfunder to share your project and engage with supporters, maintaining security is crucial to protect both yourself and your fundraising efforts. To help you stay safe and secure, here are some essential tips on how to recognise and avoid online scams while keeping your account protected.
1. Use Crowdfunder’s Official Website
Always sign in to your Crowdfunder account via the official website: crowdfunder.co.uk. Avoid clicking on links from unfamiliar emails or messages that claim to offer services for your project, as these could lead to fraudulent websites designed to steal your information.
2. Be Cautious with Emails and Messages
Crowdfunder provides a messaging service through your project page, but please note that we do not verify the identity of all users messaging you. Be cautious of any messages that seem suspicious. Crowdfunder will never ask you to accept a donation directly or require sensitive information via email.
If something feels off, do not engage. Instead, forward the message to Crowdfunder’s support team at [email protected] or click on the "Get Help" option on the website.
3. Protect Personal Information
While sharing your project publicly, avoid posting personal details such as your address, phone number, or bank account information. Revealing this kind of information increases your risk of being targeted by scammers. Always keep your private information secure, and never provide these details to anyone you don’t fully trust.
4. What to Do If You Encounter Suspicious Activity
If you receive any suspicious emails or messages, do not respond. Forward them immediately to [email protected] for verification. If you accidentally click on a suspicious link or provide sensitive information, follow these steps:
Report the incident to Crowdfunder as soon as possible.
Change your Crowdfunder and email account passwords.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on your accounts for added security.
Monitor your bank accounts closely and consider setting up transaction alerts with your financial institutions to detect any unusual activity.
5. Common Online Fraud Schemes
Be aware of the following common scams that may target Crowdfunder users:
Offers Related to Your Crowdfunder Project
Scammers may pose as donors and offer services such as:
Running your campaign for a fee or withdrawing donations on your behalf.
Guaranteeing that you will reach your fundraising goal in exchange for a service fee.
Offer to make large donations if you pay them a percentage of your funds raised.
Avoid engaging with anyone who offers such services, especially if they ask for personal details or payment in advance.
Phishing
Phishing scams involve attempts to steal your personal information by impersonating Crowdfunder or another trusted entity. These scams may:
Include emails with fake Crowdfunder links that attempt to steal your login details.
Redirecting you to fraudulent websites that look like the official Crowdfunder site.
Pose as Crowdfunder staff or donors to gain your trust.
Remember, Crowdfunder will only communicate via official @crowdfunder.co.uk email addresses. If you receive an email that seems suspicious, report it to Crowdfunder for further review.
Catfishing
Scammers may use fake identities to manipulate you emotionally or financially. If someone contacts you with an emotional story, always verify their identity before continuing the conversation. Never send money or share personal details with someone you've only met online.
6. Additional Resources for Online Safety
For more tips on staying safe online, you can refer to government resources offering detailed advice on how to protect yourself from digital fraud.
If you encounter any impersonation or misuse of Crowdfunder’s messaging system for fraudulent purposes, please report it immediately by clicking "Get Help" at the bottom of Crowdfunder.co.uk.
By following these steps and staying alert to potential scams, you can keep your Crowdfunder account and personal information safe while focusing on reaching your fundraising goals. Sharing your Crowdfunder project and engaging with your network is a critical part of your fundraising success, and we’re here to help ensure you do so securely and effectively.