Public should be wary of disaster-donation scams

The Better Business Bureau is warning Illinoisans to be wary of scam artists pretending to be charities collecting money to help people affected by Tropical Storm Isaac.

Steve Bernas is CEO of the Better Business Bureau operation in northern Illinois. He says people who want to help out the victims of natural disasters such as Isaac should make sure to fully check out those soliciting donations.

The bureau says people should avoid responding to pitches that come by email. If someone wants to give online they should use a charity’s website. And the bureau says people should be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations will go to victims since all charities have expenses.

The bureau advises people to look for information about charities at its website.