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Memorial Day Scams Targeting Military Families & Patriotic Donors

Published: May 23, 2025

Memorial Day Scams Targeting Military Families & Patriotic Donors

As we approach Memorial Day—a time to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country—it’s important to remain vigilant. Unfortunately, scammers often exploit this season of remembrance to target military families, veterans, and patriotic donors.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has issued a warning about a rise in scams that prey on military affiliations, patriotic sentiments, and charitable intentions. These schemes may appear in the form of fake discounts, fraudulent donations, or impersonations of government officials.

Common Scams Targeting the Military Community

High-Priced Military Loans
Advertisements for loans that promise a guarantee, instant approval, or no credit check often come with hidden fees and extremely high-interest rates. Remember that legitimate lenders will never guarantee a loan before you apply, and loans that require an upfront fee are likely a scam.

Veterans' Benefits Buyout Plans
These offers provide a lump-sum payment in exchange for future pension or disability benefits—usually only 30–40% of what the veteran is entitled to. These arrangements are often predatory and should be carefully reviewed before signing.

Fake Rental Listings
Scammers steal photos from legitimate property listings and advertise fake military discounts. Victims are asked to wire payments for deposits or keys, only to find out the listing was a scam.

PCS (Permanent Change of Station) Moving Scams
Fraudulent moving companies may take deposits and disappear or demand additional fees after holding belongings hostage.

Phishing Emails
Fraudsters create emails that appear to be from military or government sources to steal personal, financial, or login information.

Misleading Car Sales
Fake listings claim to offer military discounts or urgent sales due to deployment. Victims are asked to wire money upfront, only to receive nothing—or a problem-ridden vehicle.

Bogus Military Discounts
Some scammers offer steep discounts on vehicles, electronics, or rentals for military personnel—then vanish after receiving payment.

Overpriced Life Insurance
Service members are often targeted with aggressive sales tactics for expensive and unnecessary life insurance policies, often accompanied by misleading benefit claims.

Deployment Scams
Posing as service members, scammers request money for urgent needs like returning home or releasing items from customs.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Do Your Homework
    Research businesses and charities before paying or donating. Check BBB Business Profiles and charity reports at Give.org.

  • Avoid Wire Transfers
    Never wire money to someone you don’t know. Use a credit card when possible, as it offers greater protections and the ability to dispute charges.

  • Safeguard Your Devices
    Don’t click on links in unsolicited emails or enter personal information on unfamiliar websites. Keep your antivirus software updated and use a secure firewall.

  • Set an Active Duty Alert
    If you're deploying, place an Active Duty Alert on your credit reports. This makes it harder for identity thieves to open accounts in your name.

Tips for Safe Donating

  • Confirm the Charity's Name
    There are over 28,000 veterans and military service organizations in the U.S. Make certain the one soliciting you is the one you have in mind. Mistaken identity is a common problem.

  • Don’t Give Under Pressure
    Reputable charities won’t push you to make a donation immediately. Take time to learn more before giving.

  • Review the Charity's Website
    Information on the charity’s mission, programs, and finances should be easily accessible on its website. Visit Give.org for verification.

  • Check State Registrations
    Most states require charities to register before soliciting donations. Contact your state’s attorney general or secretary of state for more information. Keep in mind, registration doesn’t imply endorsement.

Memorial Day should be a time of gratitude—not grief caused by preventable scams. Whether you're remembering a loved one, contributing to a veteran-focused cause, or simply enjoying the long weekend, always take a moment to verify before you trust.

For additional advice on supporting military and veterans charities, visit the BBB Wise Giving Alliance’s resource page.

Article content is provided for information purposes only.

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