Warning over fake charity wristbands

Conmen are making money from selling fake charity wristbands, the Charity Commission is today warning.

Charity wristbands sporting anti-bullying and anti-racism slogans are this season’s must have accessory – particularly in the playground. Even, the Prime Minister Tony Blair was recently pictured wearing a Make Poverty History wristband.

But unscrupulous traders are trying to capitalise on their popularity by developing their own counterfeit market, and the Charity Commission is urging the public to ensure they are giving money to a genuine charity.

Antony Robbins, head of communications at the commission, said: “Essentially they’re about raising awareness – not lining peoples’ pockets. We would advise anyone wanting to buy a wristband to make sure they are giving their money to a genuine charity.”