Conn. officials warn about possible charity scams

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut officials are warning state residents about possible charity scams seeking to exploit the elementary school shootings in Newtown.

State Attorney General George Jepsen and Consumer Protection Commissioner William Rubenstein urged people on Wednesday to be careful about donating to charities that claim to benefit victims of Friday's shootings, which left 20 children, six staff members and the shooter dead.

Rubenstein says there are many people and groups not registered as charities in the state who are soliciting donations online for the Newtown victims. No scams have been identified yet, but Rubenstein says some solicitors may not be legit. Officials are reviewing the solicitations.

Officials are advising people to donate only to well-known charities, to be extra cautious with email and phone solicitations and not write checks to individuals.