The devastation caused by a massive earthquake in Nepal and the
Katmandu Valley region has left many people asking how they can help.
If you’re looking for a way to give, the Federal Trade
Commission urges you to do some research to ensure that your donation will go
to a reputable organization that will use the money as promised.
Urgent appeals for aid that you get in person, by phone or mail,
by e-mail, on websites, or on social networking sites may not be on the
up-and-up. Unfortunately, legitimate charities face competition from fraudsters
who either solicit for bogus charities or aren't entirely honest about how a
so-called charity will use your contribution.
If you’re asked to make a charitable donation, consider these
tips:
- Donate to charities you know and trust. You want to find a charity
with a proven track record with dealing with disasters.
- Be alert for charities that seem to have sprung up overnight in
connection with current events. “Look alike” websites resembling
legitimate charitable organizations and international aid efforts may be
popping up. Check out the charity with the Better
Business Bureau's (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, Charity Watch, or GuideStar.
- Designate the disaster. Charities may give the option to designate
your giving to a specific disaster. That way, you can ensure your funds
are going to disaster relief, rather than a general fund.
- Never click on links or open attachments in e-mails unless you know
who sent it and what it is. Opening attachments — even in e-mails that
seem to be from friends or family — can install malware on your
computer.
- Don’t assume that charity messages posted on social media are
legitimate or have been vetted. Research the charitable organization
yourself.
- When texting to donate, first confirm the number with the source.
The charge will show up on your mobile phone bill, but be aware that text
donations are not immediate. Depending on the text message service used by
the charity, it can take as much as 90 days for the charity to receive the
funds.
- Find out if the charity or fundraiser must be registered in your state by contacting the National Association of State Charity Officials.
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