Scam Alert: Tornado relief donations

The tornado brought devastation, but it also brought generosity, an outpouring of community support. However, when natural disasters strike, scams go up. "Unfortunately, when there are natural disasters, there are individuals then that turn it into some kind of a profit-making advantage for them."

One of the most popular scams is door-to-door cash collectors. "If people are coming to the door, pressuring you to make a donation, saying we really need your help, we really need your money, could you please give...They're asking for cash. In a time like this with a tornado, that's a huge red flag."

Another popular scam is posing as representatives from reputable charity organizations. "They'll use those legit entities and spin it off to a fraud or a criminal act where they're going to try and collect money for their own goods."

Protect yourself by doing the following:

• Do not donate cash. Make checks payable to the organization or charity.
• Research the organization or charity
• Don't allow anyone to pressure you into giving
• Be cautious of those at your door asking for money
• Contact police if you are suspicious