With the fierce wildfires still consuming swathes of the greater Los Angeles area, New York Attorney General Letitia James has issued a timely reminder for those in the Empire State eager to lend their support to the relief efforts, prompting potential donors to stay vigilant against fraudulent charities. According to a recent press release, James insists on the prudence of philanthropy, advising New Yorkers to ensure they channel their generosity toward legitimate and effective organizations.
As reported by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), eyes sharpen when disaster casts its long shadow, watching for the ill-intended who twist empathy into opportunity, New Yorkers are cautioned to stay alert of deceptive solicitations, particularly around the wildfires which have triggered a surge in charity scams. In a statement obtained by SFist, James said, "In the midst of terrible natural disasters such as the wildfires impacting the greater Los Angeles area, scammers often take advantage of generous acts in exchange for personal gain," and she further encourages those wishing to help to verify the trustworthiness of the organizations they choose to support.
The OAG has assembled a list of tips for well-intentioned individuals, providing common-sense steps such as performing due diligence when approached via email or social media by would-be charity campaigns. It suggests donors probe into the background of those requesting donations and give only when confident in the legitimacy of the campaign’s organizers. Scrutiny is advised before making donations, with the OAG's website recommended as a source for financial reports of registered charities soliciting from New Yorkers. Prospective donors are urged to inquire precisely how their contributions will be used and cautioned against newly formed entities that might still be finding their footing, or worse, those who may exploit the urgency of crises for their gain.
Consequently, alternatives to cash donations are suggested by the Attorney General, with checks and direct online giving emphasized as safer options. The Attorney General also reminds donors to protect their personal and financial information as carefully as they would in any transaction of trust. Genuine concerns raised about the rise of charlatans have led the OAG to urge anyone suspecting foul play to report suspicious organizations through the Charities Bureau or contact them by phone.
