NC warns of potential scams in wake of natural disasters

North Carolina officials are warning people to be wary of fake charities that could pop up following stories of national and international disasters.

Secretary of State Elaine Marshall said natural disasters tend to bring out the scam artists. “That not only steals from the people making contributions it robs disasters of vital resources,” she said.

Flooding in Houston and earthquakes in Japan and Ecuador have been in the news lately.

Marshall warned people to watch out for high-pressure solicitations through social media, texts or emails, as well as groups that use names resembling those of established charities.

Marshall encouraged people to check out a charity on the agency’s website, www.sosnc.gov. Another good resource, she said, is the Better Business Bureau’s website for the Houston region, where donors can check out charitable organizations in that area helping flood victims.

This story was originally published April 21, 2016 at 9:25 AM with the headline "NC warns of potential scams in wake of natural disasters."