AG urges Granite Staters to vet any request for donations to help Ukraine

Ukrainian soldiers get ready to repel an attack in the Lugansk region. (BBC photo)

CONCORD - The Attorney Generals office on Wednesday warned New Hampshire residents to avoid scam charities seeking to profit from the crisis in Ukraine. The alert noted that bad actors may target well-intentioned people who simply want to make donations for Ukrainian relief.

In addition, while most charities are well-intentioned, some may not have the infrastructure needed to deliver the promised assistance to the war-torn country.

It urges donors take the time to research charities before giving.

Here's how not to get scammed.

· Check the Registration Status: Charities operating in New Hampshire must register and submit reports to the Charitable Trusts Unit. To determine whether a charity is properly registered and in good standing with the Charitable Trusts Unit, search the Registered Charities list on the Charitable Trusts Unit website: www.doj.nh.gov/charitable-trusts/registered-charities.

· Check the Experience of the Charity and Check if Ukraine Crisis Relief Matches its Purpose: Charities that are formed overnight or charities that shift their direction overnight to respond to a crisis may not have the experience, contacts, or staff to address the challenge. Look for charities that have both a track record in the region and a good reputation.

· Be Cautious of Online Fundraising: Before making gifts using charity websites or online giving portals, review the Charitable Trusts Unit's Online Giving Guide: www.doj.nh.gov/charitable-trusts/documents/giving-guide. Avoid making online gifts to individuals unless you know them.

· Do Not Be Pressured or Share Personal Financial Information Over the Phone: Do not share your credit/debit card or bank account information over the phone. Send donations directly to the charity. A legitimate charity will not pressure you to make a donation immediately. Take the time to research the charity before committing to a gift.