Beware of Disaster Scams

As the devastating consequences of the Haitian earthquake became apparent, many Ohioans wanted and continue to want to help in any way they can.  Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray encourages Ohians to help, but to also exercise care as they make decisions about donating to rescue efforts.

"Ohioans must be aware that scammers will see their charitable instinct as providing a moment of opportunity.  Time is of the essence in dealing with this disaster, but adding a few extra moments to do your homework will ensure your donations provide the help that's needed,"  Cordray said. 

Widespread charitable scams have been noted following other large-scale disasters such as the Asian tsunami and Hurricane Katrina.  In additon, some legitimate charities do solicit the public for donations through telephone calls or mailings.  If professional solicitors or telemarketers are calling on behalf of the charity, they must disclose their name and the fact that they are acting as a professional solicitor. 

Attorney General Cordray has made available a comprehensive listing of the professional charitable solicitors registered with his office.  Ohioans wanting to cross-check information about a charitable solicitor can check this listing at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov/RegisteredSolicitors. 

Cordray encourages consumers to follow a few guidelines for wise charitable giving:

• Ask how your donation will be used.
• Ask if the person requesting the donation is a professional solicitor and if so, what percentage of your donation will stay with the charity.
• Beware of alleged charities using names designed to be similar to larger, respected organizations.
• Decline to contribute to any charity that is unable or unwilling to answer your questions.
• Do not fall victim when high-pressure tactics are used to secure your donation.
• When solicited by phone, always ask the caller to send you written materials about the charity.
• DO NOT GIVE OUT PERSONAL INFORMATION such as credit card numbers or bank account numbers over the phone.
• Decline any offers by the solicitor to pick up your donation in person.
• Do not pay in cash or make your donation payable to an individual.
• Verify a real campaign or organization by calling the organization's headquarters directly.

The Ohio Attorney General's Office can take action against fraudulent charitable fundraising schemes.  Call the Attorney General's Office at (800) 282-0515 to report fraudulent or questionable fundraising efforts.

For more information about good giving habits, visit www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov/GoodGiving.

Information taken from the Ohio Attorney General's Office website.