Flooding in Queens. Photo: Adam TaylorPORTLAND, OR (KPTV) -
The Better Business Bureau has a warning for you: Don't let Superstorm Sandy turn you into a scam victim.
The organization said natural disasters often bring out crooks looking to cash in on people searching online for news of the event or ways to help.
You should be wary of search engine results from unknown websites, unsolicited emails, messages and social media posts from unknown senders and videos or stories with unusual or shocking headlines.
Fake charities can also spring up overnight to cash in on people looking to donate to support groups during a natural disaster.
The Better Business Bureau said the cons will even impersonate legitimate organizations using materials with stolen names and logos.
Don't give in to solicitors that demand donations using threats, aggressive tactics or deadlines. You should avoid a charity that only accepts cash donations or checks made out them personally.
You should also ask what kind of relief will be offered, how it will be distributed, who will benefit, when it will be allocated and what percentage of donations benefit the cause.
If you aren't given those answers, you should look elsewhere, according to the Better Business Bureau.
To be safe, contribute to local or national charities directly by visiting their offices or official websites.
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