People donating to charities to help the Queensland flood victims are advised to verify the legitimacy of their chosen organizations says SCAMwatch.

The warning comes based on incidents in the past where bogus charities took advantage of the Haiti earthquake crisis and the Victorian bushfires. Be wary of unknown charity organizations and websites since duplicate websites and emails may be used.

Consumers are advised to approach charity organizations directly to make a donation and to never give out personal, credit card or online account information unless the charity is verified first.

The Queensland government is accepting financial donations only via the Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal. A Distribution Committee will manage the disbursement of the donated funds. Donations made worth $2 and over are considered tax deductable.

Those wanting to donate goods or items are advised to go through Givit.org.au, a not-for-profit organization that provides charities with access to donated goods.