BEWARE BOGUS CHARITY COLLECTOR IN BRISBANE

Far Trading Minister Margaret Keech has warned Brisbane residents of a bogus door-to-door charity collector making the rounds.

The man, approximately 160 cm tall of Melanesian appearance and in his 40s, collected money under the guise of the National Breast Cancer Foundation using a fake identity tag.

Mrs Keech said the scammer was discovered after a tip-off from an Enoggera resident to the Office of Fair Trading. There was also a report he had been operating in the Spring Hill area.

“Inspectors arrived at the scene at Enoggera within 10 minutes and found the scammer who, when confronted, ran off,” Mrs Keech said.

“Police have been notified and are also on the hunt for him.”

National Breast Cancer Foundation General Manager Sue Murray confirmed the scam.

"We don't conduct door-to-door appeals and instead raise funds through pink ribbons, pink pins and pink wristbands which are available from registered retail outlets such as newsagents, David Jones, fashion specialty stores and pharmacies," Ms Murray said.

Mrs Keech said consumers approached for donations should check charity collectors:

oare wearing a prominent collection armlet or badge;

ohave a current written authority from the association for which they claim to be collecting;

osupply an authentic numbered ticket or receipt; and

oif they are under 15 years of age, are accompanied by an adult.

“If you spot this man, or anyone you believe may be a bogus charity collector, call Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000,” Mrs Keech said.

Bogus collectors convicted under the Collections Act 1966 face fines of up to $1,500 and/or three months’ jail.

To check if an organisation is authorised to fundraise in Queensland call the Office of Fair Trading on 13 13 04.

Inquiries: David Smith 3225 1005 / 0409 496 534 or Olivia Nemeth (OFT) 3119 0067