AG James warns about scams in charitable giving for Venezuela earthquake relief

New York Attorney General Letitia James issued a warning on July 8 about scams in charitable giving for Venezuela earthquake relief, providing guidance to New Yorkers looking to support relief efforts in response to the devastating earthquake.

James cautioned New Yorkers to be wary of sham charities that may take advantage of their concern and bad actors who misrepresent themselves as being associated with a charity.

The New York Attorney General James also urged everyone to ensure they are donating to legitimate charitable efforts and organizations. 

“My heart breaks for all those impacted by this devastating earthquake in Venezuela and their families and loved ones at home here in New York,” she said. “As New Yorkers seek to support relief efforts, I urge them to be careful of sham charities that prey on their generosity and make sure they are giving to trustworthy organizations and groups.”

“I encourage anyone who experiences any issues when donating to contact my office,” she added. 

James said fraudulent organizations can try to take advantage of New Yorkers’ good intentions, especially following natural disasters. 

When solicited by email, James urged New Yorkers to find out who is behind that email address. 

“Contact the charity whose name is in the email or visit its website to find out if the email is really from the charity,” she said. “Do not give personal information or your credit card number in response to an email solicitation, unless you have checked out the charity,” she said. 

Before giving through social media or fundraising sites, James urged to research the identity of the organizer of the fundraising efforts and ask the same questions you would of a charity. 

She said online platforms that host groups and individuals soliciting for causes may not thoroughly vet those who use their service. 

James said donors should only give to campaigns conducted by people whom they know. 

She said donors also should take a close look at the site’s Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Terms and Conditions to see what fees will be charged. 

“Also, don’t assume that charities recommended on social media sites, blogs, or other websites have already been vetted,” the attorney general said. “Research the charity to confirm that the charity is aware of the campaign and has given its approval for the use of its name or logo. 

“If available, sign up for updates from the campaign organizer to keep abreast of how contributions to the campaign are being spent,” she added. 

James said to donate to charities you are familiar with and to carefully review information about the charity before you give. 

“Check a website like Disaster Philanthropy to find out which charities are at the aid forefront,” she said, stating that most charities are required to register and file financial reports with the Office of the Attorney General’s (OAG) Charities Bureau if they solicit contributions from New Yorkers. 

In addition, James said to look into newly formed organizations carefully. 

“Often, in the aftermath of tragedies, new organizations emerge to meet community needs,” she said. “While most of these organizations are well-intentioned, and some may provide innovative forms of assistance, some may not have the experience or infrastructure to follow through on their promises, and some may turn out to be scams.” 

James also warned about giving cash and urged to exercise caution before you text a contribution. 

“Check the charity’s website or call the charity to confirm it has authorized contributions to be made via text message,” she said. 

“If you believe an organization is misrepresenting its work or that a fundraising or charitable scam is taking place, please file a complaint with the Charities Bureau or email [email protected],” the attorney general stated.