Charity Scam Warning Following Recent Earthquakes

It's hard to watch. The devastation after the two recent earthquakes in Ecuador and Japan have left many families homeless, hundreds injured, as well as lives lost. You just want to reach out and lend a helping hand.

Unfortunately, there are individuals who prey upon our desire to help by setting up scam charities. Monies that you think are going to help victims are actually lining someone else's pocket.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is encouraging New Yorkers who want to donate and help, that you do so through a reputable charity. Fraudsters posing as charitable organizations commonly seek to prey on those willing to help in the aftermath of major disasters. These scams can include efforts to solicit money via telephone calls, mailings, social media posts and e-mails that lead to convincing, yet fake, websites.

How can you tell the difference? Well, the office of the Governor wants to help and has released this list of reputable charities who are working to assist earthquake victims in the affected countries. Your donation will go where you meant it to go all along. You'll also find more information about how to prevent your donation money from falling into the wrong hands.

You work hard for your money, a few steps can make sure it gets where you want it to be.