TUCSON (KGUN9-TV) - Experts are warning people to be aware of scams when donating to Hurricane Harvey victims.
The Arizona Attorney General's Office is telling donors to be cautious of scams related storm donations.
“Low-life cyber scum are exploiting this disaster using fake social media accounts,” said Attorney General Mark Brnovich in a news release. "When a natural disaster strikes, many of us ask, how can we help? Giving is good, but it’s important to donate to a legitimate charity that has experience helping victims quickly.”
Some tips to make sure you're donations are going to the right place:
- Go straight to the website of the charity you wish to donate to and do not click on links in emails or text messages.
- Don't give out your personal or financial information.
- Do not send cash.
- Only donate to charities you know and trust.
The Better Business Bureau has a list of accredited charities giving back to Hurricane Harvey victims. The include:
- American Red Cross
- Humane Society of the United States
- Salvation Army
MORE: Local groups collecting donations for Hurricane Harvey victims.
On its website, the BBB suggests finding out if the charity has presence on the ground in the area of the disaster. Below is a portion of advice from the BBB:
Unless the charity already has staff in the affected areas, it may be difficult to bring in new aid workers to provide assistance quickly. See if the charity’s website clearly describes what the charity can do to address immediate needs.
