As the 2024 election heats up, campaigns, political groups and candidates will be scrambling to raise money for everything from presidential candidates to programs to help veterans and protect the environment. Be aware, however, that there are scammers lurking within the legitimate Federal Political Action Committee who want to make their own money.

The FBI has seen an increase in these fraudulent PACs, I urge people to be extremely vigilant. If a political party asks you to make political contributions, the Federal Bureau of Investigation recommends that you:

• visit Federal Election Commission website Go to (fec.gov) and search for your organization’s name to see if your PAC is registered. It is illegal if it is not registered.
• The FEC website also has a report submitted by the PAC showing how the money is spent. Check which vendor you are using. “In fraud PACs, the vendor is often associated with the operator as well. could be,” he warns the FBI.
• Be suspicious if the name of the group soliciting money resembles another well-known or established organization.
• The FBI also warns that it is illegal to accept money from others and donate it in your name to a candidate or PAC. So don’t do that.

In general, don’t donate money if it doesn’t feel right.