🛑 ICCD Scam Alert

Fundraising Scam Alert

Dear ICCD Community Members, Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh,

I write to you today on a matter of utmost importance. Recently, our ICCD community center received a visit from an individual from Columbus, Ohio claiming to be a fundraiser for a charitable cause. Unfortunately, I found out that this person was perpetrating a fraudulent scheme.

Here are the details I have gathered:

1. The Deceptive Fundraiser:

   • The individual introduced himself as the Imam of charity organization called; MASJID AL-QURAAN WA AS-SUNNAH & ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF OHIO LOCATED AT 2271 MORSE RD COLUMBUS OH 43229.

   • He solicited donations from our ICCD community members on Friday Jan 19. 2024, appealing to our generosity and compassion.

   • However, upon investigation, I discovered that the charity he claimed to represent does not have any activities and the Masjid listed above was closed over 10 years ago.

   • According to the individual, he did 7 fundraisings at our Masjid in the last 10 years with no question asked...!

   • When I confronted him, he started pashing me, calling me names, threaten to protest in front of the masjidand and file a lawsuit, etc.

   • After a few days he disappeared.

2. My Response:

   • I take such matters seriously. Our ICCD community center is committed to transparency, honesty, and safeguarding the trust you place in us.

   • I immediately secured all the funds donated by our generous community members on that Friday to be spent in the way it is meant for.

   • I reported this incident to the relevant authorities and have taken steps to prevent any further interactions with this individual.

3. My advice:

   • Be Vigilance: Always verify the legitimacy of any fundraiser or charity before donating.

   • Ask Questions: When approached by a fundraiser, inquire about the organizations name, contact information, and purpose.

   • Research: Look up the organization online. Search for any complaints or reports of scams associated with their name.

   • Rating Agencies: Consult reputable rating organizations such as IRS,BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, Charity Watch, and Candid to assess the credibility of a charity.

4. Reporting Suspicious Activity:

   • If you encounter any suspicious fundraisers or suspect fraudulent activity, report it promptly. You can:

     • Report charity scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

     • On social media platforms, like Facebook, report suspicious fundraisers directly.

Remember, our ICCD community thrives on trust and compassion. Let us remain vigilant, support genuine causes, and protect one another from deceit.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Serving Together,

Imad Achmar

ICCD President

Follow Us