(Washington, DC) Attorney General Robert J. Spagnoletti is warning residents to be wary of unscrupulous and fraudulent websites seeking donations for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. "Unfortunately they are people who will not hesitate to take advantage of the kind and giving nature of those wishing to lend a helping hand to those affected by Hurricane Katrina," said Mr. Spagnoletti. "Please confirm that the charity in which you intend to donate money is reputable."
There are a few precaution consumers can take to protect themselves and to make sure their donations reach the victims of Hurricane Katrina:
- When a message containing a request for donations for these victims appears, do not respond unless you are certain it is a valid message. Use the Better Business Bureau's guidelines below on how to evaluate solicitations BEFORE you send money or give them your credit card number.
- Validate the relief fund or charity through a known reliable entity. Please refer to the FEMA link below for a list of reputable disaster relief resources for Hurricane Katrina. The FTC link below provides guidelines on best practices for charitable donations.
American Red Cross
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Federal Trade Commission
Better Business Bureau
If you suspect you have been duped by an unscrupulous online charity, please contact the Consumer Protection Hotline at (202) 442-9828