The state Attorney General’s office is warning residents to be wary of scams that prey on people wanting to donate to relief efforts for Japan.

“Hawaii residents are eager to extend a helping hand in this time of great suffering to our friends in Japan,” Attorney General David Louie said yesterday. “Unfortunately, if our experience with earlier tragedies is any guide, we suspect that there may be so-called ‘charities’ that will try to take advantage of donors’ generosity by scamming people out of donations intended for disaster victims.”

Louie encouraged residents to verify the donations are going to reputable charities. Consumers can review the Attorney General’s database of registered charitable organizations at www.ag.ehawaii.gov/charity, he said.

Louie and the Federal Trade Commission also offered these tips:

>> Don’t contribute cash. Make a check or money order payable to the charitable organization, not an individual.

>> Consider giving to organizations that have a strong history in providing disaster relief, and ask about what percentage of the donation will benefit the relief effort.

>> Don’t fall for high-pressure tactics. Ask questions, and give only when comfortable that the donation will be applied to help the cause. Legitimate charities won’t pressure consumers to donate and will provide as much information as a consumer seeks.

>> To avoid scams, contact the charity directly before giving a donation by e-mail or to a door-to-door solicitor.

>> Be wary of names that sound similar to reputable organizations. Scam artists may sometimes use names that sound or look like those of respected, legitimate charities.

 >> Ask for the name of the charity if a telemarketer does not provide it promptly.

>> Ask what percentage of your donation will support the cause described in the solicitation.

>> Verify that the charity has authorized the solicitation.

>> Do not provide any credit card or bank information until you have reviewed all information from the charity and made the decision to donate.

>> And ask for a receipt showing the amount of the contribution and stating that it is tax deductible.