MADISON, Wis. (WTAQ) - State officials say the Gulf Coast oil spill has bubbled up to Wisconsin in the form of charity scams. The state’s consumer protection bureau says scammers are making phone calls, sending e-mails, and running Web sites to seek donations for false services and environmental causes designed to benefit their own pocketbooks.
Michelle Reinen, the bureau’s acting director, says people should contribute to charities they know – who don’t use high-pressure sales tactics. When giving online, she says most reputable charities use Dot-Org as a suffix instead of Dot-Com – gifts should be made by check or credit card – and those soliciting donations must register with the state, with the exception of religious and veterans’ groups. Those with questions are urged to call the state’s consumer bureau or the Better Business Bureau.
