STOCKTON – The situation in Haiti is tragic and will require tremendous resources to recover. 

This is a good time to remind ourselves of important safety measures related to disaster relief donations according to the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s office.

Internet users who receive appeals to donate money in the aftermath of the earthquake in Haiti or other disasters should be cautious and use due diligence before responding to requests. 

Do not respond to unsolicited incoming e-mails, and never click links contained within those messages.

Make contributions directly to disaster response organizations rather than to individuals representing themselves as victims or public officials asking for donations via e-mail or social networking sites.

Verify the legitimacy of non-profit organizations by utilizing Internet-based resources, such as www.give.org or www.charitynavigator.org.

Never give your personal or financial information to anyone who solicits contributions.  Providing such information may make you vulnerable to identity theft.

 For assistance call the DA’s Elder Fraud Line: (209)468-2488

CASE is a Partnership of the District Attorney and the Community to Prevent Elder Financial Exploitation .