BBB Warns of Donation Scams Amid Hurricane Relief Efforts

Numerous organizations and volunteers are teaming up to help the victims of Hurricane Dorian, which has now made its way to the coasts of Georgia after ravaging the Bahamas. 

However, the Better Business Bureau warns that during these times of devastation, scammers often look to profit off of the generosity of others. 

“With a variety of crowdfunding options and money transferring apps, it is especially important to dig a little deeper to understand where your money is going,” the BBB wrote in a press release. 

Below is a list of tips from the BBB on how to practice thoughtful giving: 

• Be proactive and find trusted charities that are providing assistance. Checking Give.org is a great way to check a charity’s credibility.
• Watch out for vague appeals that don’t identify the intended use of funds. See if the appeal identifies when the collected funds will be used.
• Be cautious about gifts of clothing, food, or other in-kind donations. While well-intentioned, these donations may not be the quickest way to help those in need unless the organization has the staff and infrastructure to hand out such aid properly. 
• Never click on links to charities on unfamiliar websites or in text messages or email. These may take you to a look-alike website where you will be asked to provide personal financial information or may download harmful malware onto your computer.
• Don’t assume that charity recommendations on social media have already been vetted.

For more information, click here.