FBI warns Internet users of Haiti relief scams

WASHINGTON: The FBI on Thursday issued a warning about e-mails offering bogus online fundraising to help victims of the devastating quake in Haiti, which left thousands of people dead.

A 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit Haiti Tuesday. The quake's epicentre was 15 km southwest of the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince. It was followed by dozens of aftershocks, including two measuring 5.9 and 5.0.

Haitian Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive said the death toll from the quake could reach "well over 100,000".

In a press release, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) warned Internet users that "past tragedies and natural disasters have prompted individuals with criminal intent to solicit contributions purportedly for a charitable organisation and/or a good cause".

"The FBI today reminds Internet users who receive appeals to donate money in the aftermath of Tuesday's earthquake in Haiti to apply a critical eye and do their due diligence before responding to those requests," the statement reads.

The bureau recommended being sceptical about individuals who say they were victims of the quake and requesting financial assistance in incoming spam e-mails and social networks.

It also urged to make contributions only to well-known charity organisations and to avoid disclosing personal or financial information.