Utah consumers warned about Hurricane Sandy charity scams

This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2012, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

The Utah Division of Consumer Protection is urging Utahns to investigate charitable organizations claiming to assist victims of Hurricane Sandy before donating.

The division offered several safety tips to consumers:

• Donate only to charities with a track record and a history.

• Check out any organization. Phony charities often use names, seals and logos that look or sound like those of legitimate groups.

• Call the Utah Division of Consumer Protection at 801-530-6601 or visit http://www.consumerprotection.utah.gov to see whether a charity or fund raising organization is registered with the state.

• Don't send cash. For security and tax reasons, pay by check made payable to the charity.

• Ask for a receipt.

• Be wary of charities that promise guaranteed sweepstakes winnings in exchange for a contribution.