Attorney General's News Release

September 14, 2001

Nixon warns consumers about disaster donation scams

Jefferson City, Mo. — Attorney General Jay Nixon today said consumers who want to donate money to aid the victims of this week's terrorist attacks should beware of scam artists attempting to divert those funds from legitimate charities.

“In the wake of disasters and tragedies, it is only natural that people across the country want to do something out of good will, and we don't want to discourage that in any way,” Nixon said. “They should, however, use caution and common sense to make certain their donations are used to help the victims and not line the pockets of scam artists. Missourians should look at donating directly to established charities such as the Red Cross and should ignore e-mails and other solicitations claiming that they will pass the money on to a well-known charity.”

Nixon said that after past disasters — such as the floods of 1993, the Oklahoma City bombing and the crash of TWA flight 800 — there were attempts by con artists to prey on the generosity of Americans by soliciting donations that ultimately never went to charitable causes. Consumers should obtain enough information about a charity to make a knowledgeable decision before they give, Nixon said.

“Most organizations that solicit donations in Missouri are required to be registered with our office,” Nixon said. “We have not received any new registrations this week for charities established specifically to aid the victims of the terrorist attacks.”

Nixon pointed out several warning signs consumers should notice when someone asks for a donation.

• Ask what percentage of the donation will be used for the charitable purpose. Charities are not required by law to spend any specific amount of the donations on the charitable purpose.
• Be wary of solicitors urging on the spot donations or refusing to provide written, verifiable information about the charity or organization.
• Don't judge a charity solely by its name. Many scam artists will use a name that closely resembles that of a respected charity to collect donations.
• Use checks, not cash, for donations. The check provides a written record of the donation.
• Be careful about giving credit card numbers to solicitors.

For more information about charitable giving or to check whether a charity is registered in Missouri, e-mail or call the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-392-8222.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818