HOLLISTON, Mass. — Police are warning the public about an email scam that is fraudulently using the Martin Richard Foundation name and logo to solicit money.
A Holliston resident alerted police to the suspicious email scam on Tuesday. The resident went to the police station and showed the email to police.
"The email contained the 'Martin Richard Foundation' name and logo and included an option to 'donate' at the bottom of the email," Holliston police said in a statement.
"We are proud of the resident for recognizing this email to be fraudulent in nature and bring it to our attention," police said. "We have spoken to members of the Martin Richard Foundation and have confirmed they do not solicit donations in the manner abd that their main fundraising is done through their official TeamMR8 runners and supporters."
Eight-year-old Martin Richard was one of three people killed when two bombs planted near the finish line exploded on April 15, 2013. The foundation in his name aims to promote peace through acts of kindness.
The woman alerted police to the scam just days away from the Boston Marathon.
"I think that was the purpose especially with the marathon approaching as it is, but I have not seen that version of scams in my time here," said Holliston Police Sgt. Glenn Dalrymple.
Police said the fraudulent email asked people to share personal information -- including their name, social security number, telephone number and bank account information -- so they may transfer money.
"NEVER give out any of this information," police said. "We can’t stress this enough. Scammers just want to steal your money. They can become aggressive and rude too. If you’re ever unsure of a phone call, email or letter, come meet with one of our officers and we can help. Go with your gut, if it seems strange or fake, it more than likely is!"
Dalrymple said to always check to make sure a cause is legitimate before you send money.
"When in doubt, call a trusted relative or call your local police department if someone's asking to make a donation, if you have any concerns. Just verify that they're legitimate before you send any money," he said.
In a statement, the Martin Richard Foundation thanked the resident that alerted police about the scam.
"Generosity, kindness and the willingness of people to take care of one another is the backbone of our work at the Martin Richard Foundation and the people of Holliston are a clear example of how neighbors can act proactively to protect others," the statement said. "We're grateful to the Holliston Police Department and engaged residents for alerting the public of the fraudulent use of our Foundation's name and brand in an apparent fundraising scam. We couldn't do our work without the community's support."
If you want to donate to the Martin Richard Foundation, you can visit their website here.
Cox Media Group
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