NASHVILLE - Secretary of State Tre Hargett is warning Tennesseans to do "some homework" before giving money to groups saying the financial assistance will be used to help victims of this week's Boston Marathon bombing.
Otherwise, they might be taken in by a bogus charity.
"It is an unfortunate reality that when tragic events like this occur, there are unscrupulous people who will try to profit from the kind-heartedness of others," Hargett said in a news release.
While it's admirable people want to help those affected, Hargett said that "before making any charitable contribution, it is a good idea to do some homework first."
Most types of charitable organizations are required to register and provide financial information to the Secretary of State's Division of Charitable Solicitations and Gaming.
Information on registered charities, including annual financial reports, is available on the Secretary of State's web site. The online link to the Division of Charitable Solicitations and Gaming is located at http://www.state.tn.us/sos/charity/index.htm.