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The Maryland Attorney General’s Office has issued a consumer alert, cautioning residents about fraudulent charities and scams targeting individuals looking to donate to relief efforts for Hurricanes Helene and Milton. With many southeastern states grappling with the aftermath of these destructive storms, scammers are seizing the opportunity to exploit public goodwill.
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The alert advises consumers to verify the legitimacy of charitable organizations before making any donations. Maryland residents can check if a charity is registered with the Maryland Secretary of State’s Public Registry. Donating to established, well-known charities that specialize in disaster relief is highly recommended.
Several online resources, such as GuideStar and Charity Navigator, offer detailed information about charitable organizations, including financial statements and mission details. This can help potential donors make informed decisions and avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes, which often mimic the names or logos of recognized charities.
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Key tips to avoid charity fraud include:
- Never donate over the phone or to door-to-door solicitors without first reviewing written information about the charity.
- Be cautious of high-pressure tactics or urgent pleas for immediate donations.
- Avoid clicking on donation links in emails, social media, or third-party websites, as scammers frequently use these methods to deploy fake donation sites or steal personal information.
- Always research a charity’s reputation by searching its name online with terms like “scam” or “review.”
- Refrain from sending donations via prepaid cards, gift cards, bitcoin, or wire transfers, as legitimate charities do not request donations through these methods.
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Legitimate charities should clearly explain how donations will be used and provide receipts for tax purposes.
For more information on how to safely donate, consumers are encouraged to visit the Maryland Attorney General’s website and review the “Keeping Your Eyes Open When Donating to Charities” guide.
Story by multiple RFHC contributors
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