Following the recent catastrophic flooding across Texas, individuals nationwide are reaching out to support affected Texans through donations. Attorney General Ken Paxton cautioned against individuals seeking to exploit the situation through fraudulent activities, according to a consumer alert on the Attorney General's official website. "Unfortunately, there are some heinous individuals who are trying to use this tragedy to perpetrate scams and steal money from those wanting to help Texans impacted by this devastating flooding," Paxton said.
To combat potential fraud, Paxton offered guidance on how individuals can ensure their donations truly benefit those in need. Recommendations include avoiding wire transfers, protecting personal information such as bank accounts and social security numbers, and being skeptical of unsolicited phone calls and text messages asking for contributions. To further help the public, Paxton recommended using resources like CharityWatch and GuideStar for informed charitable giving, noting that scammers often use fake names and phone numbers to disguise their identity, and area code.
Heightened awareness around text message solicitation, also known as “smishing,” is strongly advised. Texans seeking to reduce unwanted calls are encouraged to add their phone numbers to both the Texas and National Do Not Call Registries. Paxton’s consumer alert also recommends visiting the Attorney General’s website for additional tips and information on making informed charitable donations.
For those who suspect fraudulent activity, the office of the Attorney General urges reporting to the Texas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
