History is repeating itself as tons of phony charity Web sites are popping up in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The number was over 2,000 at last count. Apparently, con artists were setting them up before the hurricane ever hit land. The same thing happened after the tsunami last year. Scumbags will always come out of the woodwork when a tragedy occurs. It’s all about taking advantage of people’s generous nature. So, be aware of the four ways someone can con you. They are:
- An e-mail from an organization
- A phone call from a solicitor
- A letter in your mailbox
- Phony web sites

Clark talks about this every November or December when people tend to be more generous. And it’s happening right now. Clark doesn’t want you to give to the wrong people. What happens then is people are much less willing to give money at all. To avoid being taken, give directly to an organization that you know is legitimate, such as the Red Cross or your local church. Habitat for Humanity will most likely be involved in the rebuilding of New Orleans, so you could also give directly to that group. Take the initiative instead of reacting to someone who contacts you and asks you for money. When it comes to individuals in parking lots, it’s up to you. But you don’t know if the story is true when they ask you for money. Giving to an organization as a whole is much safer.