New York Attorney General Letitia James has issued a reminder for New Yorkers to exercise caution when making charitable donations following the recent earthquake that devastated Myanmar and Thailand. The guidance aims to help residents avoid falling victim to sham charities that could exploit their goodwill.
Attorney General James stated, "In moments of tragedy, New Yorkers are quick to offer support, donations, and strength to those in need, but too often, individuals take advantage of that kindness for personal gain." She urged residents to donate to "trustworthy organizations and groups" and encouraged them to report any issues encountered during the process to her office.
The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) highlights the importance of informed giving, especially after natural disasters. It provides several tips to safeguard donations, starting with verifying who is behind email solicitations and exercising caution when donating through social media or fundraising platforms. Donors are advised only to contribute to campaigns organized by familiar parties and scrutinize any recommended charities.
Furthermore, the OAG suggests that donors verify charities through reputable sources and inquire how donations will be used, emphasizing the need for transparency about the organization's budget and mission support. It also warns against giving cash and advises checking the legitimacy of new entities forming in the aftermath of such events. Avoiding the provision of personal information unless fully confident in the charity's authenticity is strongly recommended.
For those concerned about potential scams, the OAG encourages New Yorkers to file complaints with the Charities Bureau or contact their office directly if they suspect misleading fundraising activities.