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Having been in the website business for 10 years I’ve seen many tricks and false ways individuals with the skills and knowledge use to scam others out of money. It’s a tempting thing to do and easy for those of us who could. Thankfully, the overwhelming majority of us don’t run scams.

However, there are still those who would use a terror attack, deaths, and maimed individuals as a way to line their own pockets by preying on the good nature of human beings that want to help those who were victims. Most of the scum bags use social sites like Facebook, or twitter, but others can get more elaborate with quickly built websites that use incident related domain names and a professional presentation of a website that gives the appearance of credibility.

Beware of scams! Fully investigate any organization before you donate.

According to DomainNews.com, within an hour of Monday’s attack on the Boston Marathon finish line, more than 125 domain names were registered relating to the blasts.

The BBB says that while some domains may be legitimate efforts, many are destined to be charity scams by cyber-squatters trying to exploit the tragedy. One Twitter account has already been suspended for posting scam solicitations.

Here’s several tips from the BBB on how to ensure your help goes to those in need:

• Check out any potential charity through BBB.org, or the state attorney generals office. About 40 states require charities to register with a state government agency before they can solicit for charitable gifts.

• Be suspicious of vague appeals that don’t identify the intended use of funds. How exactly will the donations help victim’s families? What percentage of money raised will go for that purpose?

• Never click on links to charities on an unfamiliar website or in unfamiliar texts or emails. They may take you to a look-alike website where you’ll be asked for personal financial information, or directed to click on something that downloads harmful malware on your computer.

• Stick with established charities, which will likely have the experience to quickly address the circumstances and which have a track records that can be evaluated. Newly formed organizations may be well-meaning but will be difficult to vet and may not be well-managed.

Here are some other resources:

• The FBI has the lead investigative role in the bombing. Anyone who has information, visual images and/or details regarding the explosions should call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324), prompt #3. The FBI says no piece of information or detail is too small.

• The American Red Cross says it has enough blood and financial resources committed to Boston at this time, but asks that people make appointments to give blood in the weeks and months ahead.

• Boston has a 24-Hour Hotline at 617-635-4500 for anyone with concerns about their family members or friends who were at the race.