Within less than an hour after two explosions ripped through crowds at the finish line of the Boston Marathon, scammers were out to prey on the tragedy, reported the News4 I-Team.
One account, "@_BostonMarathon" -- note the underscore at the beginning -- was quick to tweet that "For every retweet we receive we will donate $1.00 to the #BostonMarathon victims."
It was a noble sentiment, but Twitter users discovered that the account's bio had almost no verifiable information and seemed to be mimicking the real Boston Marathon account. They called it out as a fake and a heartless fraud, and Twitter suspended that account shortly after the tweet seeking donations.
The real Boston Marathon account is "@BostonMarathon" -- with no underscore.
It's not unusual for scammers to follow tragedy, or to ape real accounts by adopt a name close to a real account. But the act infuriated NBCWashington users who turned to social media Monday to keep up with the news coming out of Boston.
Tracy Osborne wrote to News4 I-Team Reporter Tisha Thompson: "Can't figure out what is worse, the ones who set the bombs or the ones taking advantage of the tragedy."
Said Orpheus Williams, "They should be found and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
For users looking for legitimate sites for more information, experts said to stick to verified accounts from non-profits or businesses that you already know. The American Red Cross has resources on its website, including a special database where people can check on the safety of loved ones or post a message that they are "safe and well."
Google also launched a "person finder" to help people in the Boston area -- many of whom had trouble with cell service -- connect with loved ones.
As for charitable appeals, News4 Consumer Reporter Liz Crenshaw said to check out any appeals with the Better Business Bureau or your state Attorney General's office before giving.
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