Scamsters operating as Midwest flood-relief charities on clarkhoward.com

RIP-OFF ALERT: You've seen and heard about the suffering in the Midwest because of flood activity, and the heroic efforts of everyday people who pitched in by sandbagging to reinforce levees.

When bad things happen, it brings out the best and the worst in people.

The FTC has issued a new warning about scamsters who are stealing money by pretending to collect funds for flood relief charities.

You could substitute any other natural disaster in here and still get the same outcome. It could be Hurricane Katrina, the Christmas Day Tsunami or 9/11. These sleaze-balls come out and steal at a time when people are genuinely concerned and open their wallets.

So be wary -- after any disaster -- when you get a call from a solicitor. Don't give them any money over the phone. Ask them instead to send info and then make your decision. Be wary also of phony e-mails.

You only want to give to organizations that you have firsthand knowledge of or that you know to be OK. If you're in doubt, research a potential charity at Give.org.

The sad truth is that many people will be "once burned, twice shy" when it comes to opening their hearts (and wallets) during the next disaster. That's why it's important to do your homework first before you give any money.

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What others are saying

Giving to Charities
Something everyone ought to be aware of with regard to charitable giving in any case. If you are approached by a phone volunteer about giving to charity (even if it is legitimate), ask what percentage of their collections goes to 'administrative costs.' The last legitimate charity that called me indicated hat 79% of their collections wre for administrative costs. That means that ony 21 cents of every dollar actually goes to the chaity. I did not donate to that charity.

There is no reason why more than 20% of donations should be for administrative costs. It would be better to donate directly to the charity than to go through these 'collection agents.'

Thought your listeners might want to know that.
By Greg Cecere @ 06/24/08 11:32:04 PMreport abuse

Giving to Charities

Something everyone ought to be aware of with regard to charitable giving in any case. If you are approached by a phone volunteer about giving to charity (even if it is legitimate), ask what percentage of their collections goes to 'administrative costs.' The last legitimate charity that called me indicated hat 79% of their collections wre for administrative costs. That means that ony 21 cents of every dollar actually goes to the chaity. I did not donate to that charity.

There is no reason why more than 20% of donations should be for administrative costs. It would be better to donate directly to the charity than to go through these 'collection agents.'

Thought your listeners might want to know that.

By Greg Cecere @ 06/24/08 11:32:04 PMreport abuse

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Jun 24, 2008 -- Scamsters operating as Midwest flood-relief charities

What others are saying