ANNAPOLIS, MD—Secretary of State John C. Wobensmith and Attorney General Brian Frosh announced their participation in the 2021 International Charity Fraud Awareness Week (ICFAW) from Oct. 18-22, 2021 to help raise awareness about fraud and cybercrime affecting charities. ICFAW, which is led by an international partnership of charities, regulators, law enforcers, representative bodies and professional advisors, seeks to create a safe space for charities and their supporters to talk about fraud and share best practices.
“We wholeheartedly support International Charity Fraud Awareness Week,” said Secretary Wobensmith. “Raising awareness among charities about cybercrime and fraudulent activity is crucial, especially when cybercrime has become rampant. We are hosting two town halls for charitable organizations to raise awareness about fraud and cybercrime affecting charities,”
The Secretary of State’s Office is holding two virtual Town Halls to address precautionary measures and how to prevent breaches, and share best practices. The goal is to illuminate this vulnerability to charities, fortify the sector, and provide information that can help to protect the sector.
The first Town Hall, "Stop Cybercrime in its Tracks...Tips for Protecting Charities,” which was held earlier this week, showcased cybersecurity specialists who addressed precautionary measures and how to prevent breaches, and share good practices.
The second Town Hall, "Don't Be a Victim of Cybercrime...Tips from Charity Leaders,” which will be held here on Oct. 22, 2021 at 10:00AM, will feature charity leaders addressing the cybersecurity issues they've encountered and precautionary and reactive measures used.
“There are many charities that provide essential services and goods in communities across our state,” said Attorney General Frosh. “It’s important for charities and consumers to remain vigilant against fraud, scams, and identity theft. ICFAW is an opportunity to educate and connect Maryland’s charities with the tools needed to guard against cybercrime. ”
Secretary Wobensmith and Attorney General Frosh are official partners of International Charity Fraud Awareness Week and to support the efforts of the award-winning International Charity Fraud Awareness Week. Charities, NGOs, and not-for-profits are all susceptible to fraud and are possible targets. Those providing services and supporting local communities may be especially vulnerable to fraudsters attempting to exploit the current national and global crises to carry out fraud and cybercrime.
This effort is led by an international coalition of over 40 charities, regulators, section and professional representative bodies, and other interested stakeholders including: The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland; Charity Digital; CyberScotland, GoFundMe; UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office; Fundraising Regulator; Get Safe Online; Global Cyber Alliance; IASME Consortium; OSCR Scottish Charity Regulator; Sightline Security; Take Five to Stop Fraud; Tenancy Fraud Forum; UK Aid; UK Finance.
More information on International Charity Fraud Awareness Week can be found on the Secretary of State’s website and Facebook page.