The flooding in Pakistan has led to desperate appeals for money by various organizations, but some may not be legitimate charities.

People living beside a road beg for food in the Punjab province, Pakistan. The country's medical system has been badly hit by weeks of flooding, with hundreds of health facilities damaged. (Aaron Favila/Associated Press)The Federal Trade Commission in the U.S. is advising consumers to avoid charities that have sprung up in response to the disaster.

Donating money to established national and international organizations that have the means and experience to deliver aid is the best way to go, according to the FTC.

Consumers should be especially wary of organizations that make direct appeals through email, phone calls or text messages. If approached in person for donations, donors should inspect the canvasser's identification.

Some bogus charities use names that are similar to recognized organizations, so it's wise to double-check the name of the group making the appeal to ensure it's legitimate.

The agency also warns against giving or sending cash. A cheque or credit card is best for security and tax purposes.

To avoid charity fraud, the FTC also offers these tips:

• Ask for the charity's name, address, phone number and written information about its programs.
• Ask whether the person asking for a donation is a professional fundraiser, and how much of the donation goes to actual programs.
• Avoid high-pressure pitches.
• Avoid charities that offer to send a courier to collect money.
• Avoid charities that guarantee sweepstakes winnings in exchange for a contribution.