WARNING: Incoming Hurricane Irene Scams Ahead!

As much as we dread hearing about disasters—the natural ones, most especially—happening on certain parts of the globe where most of our families and friends are, we still keep an eye out for what's happening. And as much as we dread remembering that there are people out there who actually bank on news about such natural disasters to scam others, we continue to remind you about them. If you're that person who wants to give financial aid to those who need them during these trying times, this reminder is for you.

A few days back, the FBI issued a warning to netizens to "beware of fraudulent e-mails and websites claiming to conduct charitable relief efforts". The warning also pointed readers to the IC3 government Web page where they can read tips on how to avoid getting entangled into this kind of fiasco. I suggest you visit that page. Also, please tell your friends and family about scams popping not just into their email inboxes but possibly on their social networking streams, too.

In retrospect, here is a short list of some of the "natural disaster" scams that had been out in the wild:

• "Japan Earthquake Relief" and "Young girl commits suicide" Facebook apps
• Dangerous web search: “haiti earthquake donate”
• Donations via text messages will be the next spam scam
• Hurricane Rita scams

Stay safe!

Jovi Umawing