Fake fundraisers costing Nashvillians thousands in parking-lot scam

Some 30 to 40 times. That’s how often Nashvillians say they were taken advantage of after believing they were donating to a good cause — only to lose thousands of dollars.

Metro Nashville Police Department is now warning the public about a growing scam targeting shoppers across the city. Police said groups of young people are approaching victims in parking lots and other public places with the intent to steal money. Police believe it will happen again.

“We’re seeing it all across Davidson County and other states,” said Lt. Chad Young of the MNPD Fraud Unit.

Investigators said the scam often starts with what appears to be a harmless request — a donation for a school sports team fundraiser. But police said the groups do not accept cash. Instead, victims are encouraged to pay using mobile banking apps, debit cards, or credit cards…

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