When disaster strikes, generosity surges. The devastating wildfires in Southern California have left communities in ruins, and people across the country want to help. But where there’s goodwill, there are also opportunists.
Scammers prey on tragedies, exploiting your kindness to line their pockets. If you want your donation to truly help wildfire victims, you need to make sure it goes to the right place. Here’s how to give safely and avoid getting scammed.
Scammers Exploit Tragedy—Don’t Let Them Fool You
Fake charities pop up after every major disaster, using emotional appeals to trick people into giving. These scams can take different forms:
🔹 Imposter charities – Fake organizations with names that sound like real relief groups.
🔹 Social media crowdfunding scams – Bogus GoFundMe pages claiming to help victims.
🔹 Urgent donation requests via text, email, or phone – Scammers posing as charity representatives pressuring you to donate.
The result? Your money never reaches those in need. But with a little caution, you can ensure your donation makes a real impact.
How to Make Sure Your Donation Helps
1. Verify the Charity Before Donating
Not sure if a charity is legit? Do your homework before you give.
✔️ Use trusted sources like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance to check an organization’s credibility.
✔️ Visit the charity’s official website—don’t donate through links in social media posts or emails.
✔️ Watch for red flags, like vague donation requests or high-pressure tactics.
2. Give Directly, Not Through Third-Party Fundraisers
It may seem easier to donate through social media fundraisers or crowdfunding sites, but that’s also where many scams happen. If you want to support wildfire victims, give directly through an organization’s official website.
Some of the most reputable charities for disaster relief include:
✅ American Red Cross (redcross.org)
✅ California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund (calfund.org)
✅ Direct Relief (directrelief.org)
3. Use a Credit Card, Not Cash or Payment Apps
How you donate matters. If you’re scammed, your credit card company can help you get your money back—but cash, Venmo, and Cash App payments are gone for good.
Best practices:
✔️ Pay with a credit card for added fraud protection.
✔️ Avoid donating via wire transfers, gift cards, or payment apps.
✔️ Check your statements to confirm the charge went to the right organization.
Your Kindness Shouldn’t Be Exploited
It’s heartbreaking that some people see dollar signs in the face of tragedy—but by taking a few simple steps, you can protect yourself and make sure your generosity truly helps wildfire victims.
Have you ever come across a suspicious charity? Share your experience in the comments and help others stay safe while giving back.