“Most charities are legitimate, reputable causes,” says Sheriff Jones, “but past tragedies and natural disasters have shown that there are individuals with criminal intent looking to prey upon the generosity of others. It is wise to apply a critical eye to all appeals before responding to them,” the Sheriff continued.

Therefore before making a donation of any kind, Sheriff Jones recommends the following guidelines:

• Ask for written information about the charity, including name, address, and telephone number. A legitimate charity or fundraiser will provide you information about the charity's mission, how your donation will be used, and proof that your contribution is tax deductible.

• Call the charity. Find out if the organization is aware of the solicitation and has authorized the use of its name. If not, you may be dealing with a fraudulent organization.

• Be careful of similar sounding names. Fraudulent charities may use names that closely resemble the name of established, legitimate charitable organizations.

• Ask how your donation will be spent. How much of your donation will go directly to the charity and how much will cover the charity's administrative costs?

• Refuse high-pressure sales tactics. A legitimate charitable organization will be more than happy to give you time to consider your contribution. Additionally, they will provide you with any written materials you request and will answer any questions you may have.

• Be wary of charities offering to send a courier to pick up your donation. This type of offer is not typical of legitimate charities and may be a tip-off to a scam.

• Avoid cash donations. It is best to pay by check or credit card so you will have a record of your donation.

• Do not reveal personal or financial information to someone who solicits a contribution. Revealing this information may lead to identity theft.

• Do not respond to unsolicited e-mails asking for donations.

• Be cautious of e-mails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.

One’s best safeguard against fraudulent charities or fund raisers is to learn as much as you can about your favorite charity or cause. Do not give if you do not feel comfortable with the information you have found about the organization that is asking for donations and support.

Sheriff Jones concluded, “Once you are convinced that a charity is worthwhile, give well, but give wisely.”