Disasters bring out those who prey on generosity.

As the Carolinas recover from Hurricane Florence, Secretary of State Mark Hammond encourages you to be careful in giving to those in need.

“Our hearts go out to all those who have been impacted by Hurricane Florence,” he said.

“However, I urge everyone to do their research before making a donation. Some see this as a chance to take advantage of others.”

He recommended:

• Research a charity before making a donation.

You may inquire about the status of a charity by using the Charity Search feature on the Secretary of State’s website at www.sos.sc.govand review registered charities’ financial information including total revenue, total expenses, fundraising costs and the percentage spent on charity programs.

• Make sure the charity has a long track record of helping those in need.

• Beware of fly-by-night organizations that appear after a disaster and disappear just as quickly.

“With crowd funding sites and social media, it has become far too easy for scammers to deceive the generous and well-intentioned,” Hammond said.

• Don’t be pressured to make a donation. Legitimate charities welcome the opportunity for you to independently review their record of charitable activity.

• Know who’s calling before pledging a contribution over the phone. Professional solicitors must disclose that they are paid solicitors, the name, location and purpose of the charity and the registered true name of the professional fundraising organization they work for.

• Don’t give your personal or financial information over the phone including birth date and social security, credit card or bank account number.

• When in doubt, hang up.

The Secretary of State’s online Charitable Solicitation Complaint Form allows you confidentially to file a complaint with the Division of Public Charities, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or call 1-888-242-7484.