FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 31, 2017) – Today, Attorney General Andy Beshear issued a scam alert to warn Kentuckians of fake charity scams related to Hurricane Harvey. Due to the lasting devastation of Hurricane Harvey, Beshear is asking Kentuckians to be wary of scammers attempting to profit from relief efforts.
In Kentucky and across the nation, con artists are using bogus charity names or representing themselves as legitimate charities, in order to collect relief funds that they falsely claim will benefit storm victims. Beshear said Kentuckians who are not familiar with a charitable organization and how they use their money can verify what percentage of their income goes to the charity’s purpose on CharityNavigator.org.
The Office of the Attorney General also provides tips on how to avoid a fake charity scam:
· Do not feel pressured to give money or financial information over the phone.
· Beware of sound alike charities and phony websites.
· Be cautious of social media requests for donations. Although some may be legitimate, consumers need to verify before making donations.
· Ask solicitors what percentage of your donation will be given to the relief effort. By law, the solicitor must tell you if you ask.
Kentuckians who receive a fake charity scam call or online solicitation should contact the Office of the Attorney General at 888-432-9257 or file a scam report online.
