Leitrim animal charity 'deeply distressed' after online fraudsters impersonate founder who died last year
Leitrim Animal Welfare Centre (LAW) of Barraghmore, Drumkeerin, Co Leitrim has been forced to issue a public notice to inform supporters and the local community of attempted identity fraud in a 'serious case of targeting' LAW and of the centre's late founder, Christine Coulson.
It comes as an individual claimed to be Christine Coulson in an attempt to access non-profit benefits through the platform Goodstack, on behalf of the charity.
Staff at the centre said this was done using a fraudulent email address and without any authorisation or connection to Leitrim Animal Welfare.
A spokesperson for the charity said, 'This impersonation is both deeply distressing and criminal.
"The matter is now under investigation by An Garda Síochána, and we are working closely with the relevant platforms to stop the misuse of our name and Christine's memory.
"The impersonator submitted an application to access benefits from Google for Nonprofits via Goodstack, including free Google Ads - which could have been misused to mislead the public, access to Google Workspace - allowing fake email accounts under our name, YouTube donation tools and fundraising access - enabling the diversion of donations, Public visibility tools like Google Maps and outreach services - falsely legitimizing their actions.
"These benefits, while valuable to legitimate charities, could be weaponised to scam donors, spread misinformation, and cause reputational harm if exploited by a fraudulent party.'
The centre is urging supporters to only donate through the verified channels: PayPal: leitrimanimalwelfare@gmail.com, Donorbox: leitrimanimalwelfare.weebly.com and GoFundMe: only through links shared by official channels.
The spokesperson continued, 'Please only trust updates or donation appeals from the verified accounts relating to the centre.
"If you see anyone claiming to be Christine Coulson or representing Leitrim Animal Welfare Centre outside of our official channels, or if you come across suspicious donation requests or activity, please report it. Contact leitrimanimalwelfare@gmail.com, 085 864 5366 or contact your local Garda station.
'We are incredibly grateful for the trust and support our community continues to show, and we are committed to protecting the integrity of our work and the legacy of our beloved founder.'
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