BALTIMORE, MD—Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown is warning consumers to be wary of fraudulent charities and scams when donating to wildfire relief efforts in California.

Many people are eager to help those affected by the wildfires, but scammers often take advantage of disasters to set up fake charities. Before donating, check an organization’s registration with the Maryland Secretary of State’s Public Registry. Support well-known national or local charities experienced in disaster relief. Websites like GuideStar and Charity Navigator provide information on an organization’s finances and mission statements.

To protect yourself from fraud, keep the following in mind:

• Never agree to give money over the phone or to a door-to-door solicitor unless you initiated the call. Ask for written information about the charity and read it before making a decision.
• Avoid high-pressure tactics, such as solicitors who urge you to make an immediate donation. The charity still needs money, even if you vet the organization.
• Beware of donation requests in emails, on third-party websites, or on social media. Scammers often lure consumers through social media or emails to fake websites that steal personal and/or financial information or release malware onto computers.
• Before donating, search the charity online for terms like “scam” or “review” to see others’ experiences.
• Ignore requests for prepaid cards, gift cards, or bitcoin. People soliciting donations in prepaid credit cards, gift cards, or bitcoin are likely scammers.
• Never send money through a courier or wire. Legitimate charities do not send couriers to collect donations.
• Remember, a legitimate organization should clearly explain how your donation will be used and provide a tax receipt.

Report scams or suspicious charities online here or call 410-974-5527.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.