FBI and BBB Warn of Haiti Relief Scams

The FBI and Better Business Bureau Wednesday put out a warning to exercise caution before donating to organizations claiming to be charities that will send financial assistance to Haiti.

“Apply a critical eye,” said the FBI in a statement, and do “due diligence before responding to those requests.”

“Be cautious about online giving, especially in response to spam messages and e-mails that claim to link to a relief organization,” said the Better Business Bureau.

Those who do receive phishing e-mails soliciting money for Haiti and seeking personal or financial information are advised to notify the FBI via its Internet Crime Complaint Center Web site.

“Whenever there is a major natural disaster, be it home or abroad, there are two things you can count on,” said Art Taylor, BBB president in a press release. “The first is the generosity of Americans to donate time and money to help victims, and the second is the appearance of poorly run and in some cases fraudulent charities.

“Not only do Americans need to be concerned about avoiding fraud, they also need to make sure their money goes to competent relief organizations that are equipped and experienced to handle the unique challenges of providing assistance.”