Warnings of Charity Scams after Natural Disasters

By Jacqueline Sit, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- In light of the devastating earthquake that rocked Haiti, there are many appeals for help, but before you open your wallets make sure you know where your money is going.

"Anytime there's a natural disaster, anytime there's people in need, there are some who'll try to exploit that, that's just a fact of life," Oklahoma City Better Business Bureau CEO Bob Manista said.

Here are some quick tips to protect you from potential earthquake relief aid scams:

1. Find a real organizational Web site: There are certain charities that spring to mind when it comes to disaster relief, The Red Cross, for example, is accredited by the BBB.

2. Beware of e-mail solicitations: Many charities including the Red Cross will never ask you for donations through email, instead go to the actual Web site in your browser to make a donation. Never give your personal information in an e-mail.

State Attorney General Drew Edmondson wants Oklahomans to make sure your dollars end up where they're supposed to be.

"In the area of charities fraud and in victimization of senior citizens, these kinds of things are very aggravating, very hard to combat and knowledge is the best defense," said Edmondson.

Edmondson also recommends these tips to make sure you're giving to the needy and not the greedy:

- Beware of appeals that are long on emotion but short on fact
- Ask for written information before giving
- Do not be pressured into giving.

If you're uncertain about an organization, visit the Better Business Bureau's Web site to verify if a charity is legitimate.

Also, anyone with information regarding suspected fraud or scams can contact the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Hotline at 888-468-4454.

One resource that rates how efficiently charities raise and spend money is Charity Navigator: Your Guide to Intelligent Giving.

AG Warns of Haiti Earthquake Charity Fraud