THERE are steps you can take to avoid being bilked by con artists posing as charity volunteers.

All licensed fund-raising events are issued a certificate that bears the charity's stamp, details of the drive and particulars of the person collecting donations, said the National Council of Social Service (NCSS).

Ask to see the document, called the Collector's Certificate of Authority. Everyone soliciting donations on the street is supposed to have the certificate handy.

The public can also search for information on the charity at www.charities.gov.sg or contact the Charities Unit on 6354-8543 to verify the status of the organisation.

Information on licensed fund-raising events can also be found on the NCSS website at www.ncss.org.sg and on the police website: http://www.spf.gov.sg/licence/frameset_HH.html