CHARLESTON, WV (WOAY)- Attorney General Patrick Morrisey warns the public about charity scammers in the wake of Hurricane Helene. With the devastation that was left by Helene, many people want to help the survivors and send money for relief efforts. According to Morrisey, scammers use that generosity to their advantage of these situations.
For those who wish to give to an organization, you’re advised to make sure that it’s registered to a proper state agency. If that organization in West Virginia, you can get information on it with the Secretary of State’s office.
Here are a few tips that you can do so you can avoid these scams:
Only give to established organizations that you know and trust
Be cautious if charities ask for cash, gift cards, or via wire transfer
Consider paying with a credit card
Keep records of your donations
If you have made a donation to a charity and you think it may have been a scam, you can contact the attorney general’s consumer protection division at 800-368-8808 or file a complaint online at www.ago.wv.gov.