Pennsylvanians Warned About Phony Charities Following Boston Marathon Explosions
HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) – Pennsylvanians are being warned to watch out for phony charities soliciting donations following the Boston Marathon explosions.
Secretary of the Commonwealth Carol Aichele says they have "reports from online industry sites of more than 125 online domain names related to the bombing being registered since Monday, as well as a number of Twitter accounts."
Aichele also says that any organization asking for donations must be registered with the Department of State, aside from religious organizations, and that the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations has not received any applications for charities related to the attack.
Aichele says reputable organizations should be able to provide addresses and phone numbers. If you aren't sure about a charity, "hang up, leave the website, or check with the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations before giving money."
You can check to see if an organization is registered by going to www.dos.state.pa.us, clicking on "Charities", then clicking on "Searchable Database", and typing in the organization's name. You can also call 800-732-0999 to ask if a group is registered.
