By: Richard L. Smith
In the aftermath of the devastating wildfires that ravaged Maui, Hawaii, ongoing rescue and emergency operations underscore the importance of vigilance.
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs are sounding an alarm to residents, reminding them to be wary of deceitful charitable appeals while contributing to relief endeavors.
Amid this challenging time, the counsel to "Investigate Before You Donate" serves as a valuable shield against fraudulent charitable solicitations preying on those willing to aid the wildfire-affected populace.
"During calamities like the one in Hawaii, the human spirit of compassion shines brightly as we rally to assist those in need. However, opportunistic scammers view such events as opportunities to exploit the generosity of the public," cautioned Attorney General Platkin.
He further added,"Donors must exercise caution to avoid inadvertently lining the pockets of fraudsters with relief funds."
Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs, Cari Fais, emphasized the significance of channeling assistance through established and reputable charities.
Fais stated, "New Jersey residents intent on making a positive impact should seek out trustworthy and legitimate charitable organizations. Being prudent ensures that your contribution genuinely aids those in distress."
For those in New Jersey who aim to contribute to the Hawaii wildfire victims, the Division offers the following guidance:
- Give to charities you know and trust. Never give to a charity you know nothing about. If a charity is new, that doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't donate—but learn as much as possible before you decide to entrust the organization with your money.
- Learn about the charity's stated mission and how it plans to use your money. Ask for literature and read it. Honest charities encourage you to ask questions.
- Contact Consumer Affairs' Charities Hotline at 973-504-6215 or visit the Search For A Charity page to learn about specific charities and confirm that they are registered with the Division, as required by law.
- The Division's website will also show the charity's most recently reviewed financial information—including the amount of the charity's annual expenses that went to actual charitable programs, as opposed to fundraising or management expenses.
- Don't be fooled by a convincing name or professional-looking website. Dishonest charities may use impressive names or names that closely resemble those of respected, legitimate organizations.
- Don't succumb to pressure. Don't let yourself be pressured into giving; don't feel you have to contribute on the spot. No legitimate organization will expect you to contribute immediately, even if you have given in the past.
- Ask if the charity uses a professional fundraiser and, if so, what percentage of your contribution will actually go toward relief efforts and how much will be used to pay the fundraiser.
- Beware of unsolicited and phony email notices that claim to be from a charity asking for your credit card information. This scam is called "phishing" and could be used by thieves to commit identity theft. If the charity is unfamiliar to you, check whether the group is registered with Consumer Affairs' Charities Section. If the organization is registered or you know the organization, call directly to find out if the email notice is valid.
Consumers may obtain information about a charity in several ways. They can ask the charity itself (reputable charities encourage you to do so) or visit the charity's website.
Consumers can also obtain this information from the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.
Visit the Division's Charities Registration page; call the Division's Charities Hotline at 973-504-6215 during regular business hours, or use the Division's free "New Jersey Charity Search" smartphone app.