Exercise caution when donating to Texas floods

As Ohioans step up to offer their support to the recovery efforts of the devastating and deadly flooding in central Texas, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Financial Institutions urges generous individuals to be careful about the organizations they support with financial donations. There are already reports of scams targeting generous donors and victims' families, so it is vital to ensure that contributions are made through trustworthy organizations. "Natural disasters often bring out the best in humanity with countless acts of generosity. But, sadly, they also attract those looking to exploit the situation," division superintendent Kevin Allard said "Ohioans can play a meaningful role in recovery efforts from a distance by exercising caution when making donations to ensure their contributions provide real help," Allard added. Ohio residents looking to make an impact should consider donating through reputable organizations with strong disaster relief credentials. State or regional chapters of trusted organizations — like the American Red Cross, United Way and Salvation Army — provide reliable means of ensuring contributions directly support recovery efforts. The Federal Trade Commission also offers important tips regarding the research and planning individuals should conduct to help ensure their donation is used appropriately. These tips include: • Donate to trusted charities — Only donate to charities with a proven track record in handling disaster relief. Individuals should be cautious of unsolicited requests for donations. • Conduct research — Always verify an organization's charitable reputation by conducting an online search and consider using resources like the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance or Charity Watch. • Crowdfunding caution — Exercise caution when donating to individuals on crowdfunding sites. If you do, make sure it's someone you personally know and trust. • Secure payment methods — Avoid making donations via cash; gift cards; wiring money through services, such as Venmo; or cryptocurrency. By making donations via credit cards, Ohioans can stay better protected from financial concerns. • Verify text donations — Before making a donation via text, be sure to confirm the charity's number on its website to ensure it is a valid number. The July 4th floods have killed at least 132 people, according to the Associated Press. Authorities believe more than 160 people may still be missing in Kerr County alone and 10 more in neighboring areas. Dozens of homes, meanwhile, have been damaged and/or destroyed. Bio blast The Ohio Division of Financial Institutions is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. "We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe," according to a division statement. People can learn more by visiting com.ohio.gov.