BBB: Scams increase after natural disasters

The Better Business Bureau warns citizens who make donations to aid tsunami relief efforts to be on the lookout for scams.

“The BBB Wise Giving Alliance encourages the public to contribute to helpful causes that will assist the families and victims of the tsunami catastrophe,” said Art Taylor, president and CEO of the alliance, in a news release.

“Donors should make certain, however, that the charity is properly registered with appropriate state government agencies, that it describes exactly what it will do to address the needs of victims, and that it is willing to provide written information about its finances and programs.”

In addition to checking with the Wise Giving Alliance, here are some tips from the BBB:

• Be wary of any charity that is inexperienced in carrying out relief efforts but is suddenly soliciting for tsunami assistance – it may not have the ability to quickly deliver aid to where it is needed.

• Watch out for appeals long on emotion and short on description of what the charity is doing to address the needs of victims and families.

• Do not give cash. Make a check or money order out to the name of the organization, not to an individual collecting the donation.

• Be very careful with online donations, and make sure to check for red flags – hidden Internet domain names or inconsistent information.

Also, read carefully; many scam artists try to make their fake organization look like an established group to trick people into giving.

• Beware of excessive pressure for on-the-spot donations.

• Do not give credit card information or other personal data to a telephone solicitor or in response to an e-mail solicitation.

• If the charity’s representative won’t answer reasonable questions about its operations and finances, walk away.

Taylor added that for those who can’t donate now, relief charities will welcome donations next week or next month as needs of victims and their families change.