PEOPLE are being warned of conmen selling fake charity wristbands online.
The Charity Commission has issued the alert because the wristbands have become sought-after items.
They were introduced to support causes such as anti-bullying, anti-racism and the recently launched Make Poverty History campaign.
Spokesman Antony Robbins said: "We would advise anyone wanting to buy a wristband to make sure they are giving their money to a genuine charity."
Lindsay Boswell, chief executive of the Institute of Fundraising, said: "It is despicable to see that criminals are targeting money intended for good causes.
"We would encourage anyone wanting to buy one to contact the charity directly or to visit their website."
Anyone wanting to buy a wristband is advised to avoid paying for them on auction sites and other non-charitable web pages.
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