In the aftermath of hurricanes, New Jersey officials are warning residents to be wary of charitable fraud. The authorities have raised concerns about scammers taking advantage of people’s good intentions by soliciting donations for fake charities or using high-pressure tactics to solicit funds. Officials emphasize the importance of researching charities before donating, making sure they are legitimate and reputable.
In a statement to Shore News Network, New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal highlighted the need for caution when donating, especially during times of crisis when emotions are high. He warned that scammers often use disasters as an opportunity to exploit people’s generosity. Grewal encouraged residents to verify the legitimacy of charities through resources like the Division of Consumer Affairs’ website, which has a list of registered charities in the state.
The Division of Consumer Affairs has also issued tips for avoiding charitable fraud, including never giving cash, gift cards, or wiring money to unfamiliar organizations and asking for written information about the charity’s mission, programs, and finances. Residents are advised to be cautious of unsolicited emails, phone calls, or social media messages requesting donations and to be wary of organizations with vague or generic names.
Additionally, Grewal emphasized the importance of reporting any suspicious or fraudulent activity to authorities. He stated that law enforcement agencies are ready to investigate and prosecute individuals who take advantage of the generosity of others during times of crisis.
Overall, New Jersey officials are urging residents to be vigilant and cautious when donating to charity, especially in the aftermath of hurricanes. By taking steps to verify the legitimacy of organizations and reporting any suspicious activity, individuals can help prevent charitable fraud and ensure that their donations are going to those in need.
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