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Internet's role in tsunami aid significant

Washington, DC, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- From instant alerts the moment an earthquake and tsunami hit southeast Asia to subsequent fundraising, the Internet is playing a huge role in the disaster.

 Relief organizations such as the Red Cross and OxFam have reported unprecedented levels of online pledges, based in part on efforts by Apple.com and Amazon.com, which feature links to the American Red Cross. EBay allows sellers to donate 10 percent to 100 percent of their proceeds to UNICEF and the United Nations Children's Fund, CNN reported.

A group of volunteer technology specialists in Norway created a Web site a day after the disaster called the Phuket (Thailand) Disaster Message Board.

"It's been going on non-stop," said Andreas Hoistad, one of the creators.

The independent site offers more than 13,000 postings with lists of names, descriptions of the damage, pictures of relatives and links for those seeking to identify victims. At least 3 million users have visited the site at least once.

The site doesn't appear to be soliciting donations, only letting victims communicate with friends and family.

The FBI issued a public fraud alert Wednesday, warning people to be wary of several online sites soliciting relief donations. Some are scams. The bureau termed the actions "egregious" and vowed to pursue the perpetrators.

Steve White, Thailand
E-mail: s-t-e-v-e@w-h-i-t-e.com

Leif Hellström, Sweden
E-mail: theswede22@hotmail.com

Andreas Hoistad, Norway
E-mail: ahoistad@yahoo.com

Steve White:

“It has been a very sad time for me to see Phuket and Thailand, the place I live and love so much hurt in such a cruel way, I still can't beleive it. My thoughts are with the people of all countries who have lost family and loved ones, I can't begin to understand how you must be feeling now, I hope we were able to help some of you with our service. The Thai people need your support now more than ever, please don't stay away. Thailand is a fantastic country, caring people, great scenery, a ideal place to holiday or even make a life. Rahk Mahk Prathet Thai, chok dee.
Thanks to everyone who has been involved in the Message Board, especially to Leif, Andreas and everyone at Solace without who this wouldn't have been possible, it's been great to see people from many nations pulling together at a time of crisis.”

Leif Hellström:

“"Knowing that all the time and knowledge I've put into this has made a difference for people made it possible to last all these hours and I thank you all for your encouraging words."”

Andreas Hoistad:

“Having worked with this around the clock I am glad that my IT experience became useful in this crisis and knowing that I have helped those in need of help makes it all worth it. The conversations with some of the victims families being told that what we did meant something is what I will remember for the rest of my life. My thoughts are with all those that lost their loved ones in this tragedy.”