Texas – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is stepping up his efforts to safeguard Texas residents from anyone who want to take advantage of the disaster for their own gain as communities struggle to rebuild from the devastating flooding.
On Tuesday, Paxton said he would take strong action against what he called a potential fraudulent fundraising campaign that was set up in response to the disaster. The main focus is on a GoFundMe website set up by a person named Tray Coppola. The Attorney General’s office thinks this page may be misleading well-intentioned donors.
In a formal warning letter issued to Coppola, Paxton’s office demanded that the fundraiser be shut down immediately and that any money collected be returned to donors. The letter also tells Coppola to keep all relevant records and paperwork while the case is being investigated into. The Attorney General said that not following the rules could result in civil fines, orders to pay back money, and an injunction from the court.
“Malicious schemes to swindle Americans who want to generously help our fellow Texans amidst this tragedy will be met with swift and forceful action from my office,” Paxton said in a release.
He also said that authorities will look into whether any laws were breached and whether the campaign was part of a planned fraud aimed at stealing money that was meant to help flood victims.
This focused legal approach comes after Paxton sent out a general warning to consumers last week about a rise in frauds tied to floods. The devastating floods that displaced thousands of people and destroyed whole communities have led to a lot of generosity, but they have also created a wonderful environment for fraudsters who want to take advantage of people’s good intentions.
“Unfortunately, there are some heinous individuals who are trying to use this tragedy to perpetrate scams and steal money from those wanting to help Texans impacted by this devastating flooding,” said Paxton. “I will not tolerate anyone taking advantage of the goodwill that’s been pouring out from across the country to support our fellow Texans,” AG Paxton added last week.
Paxton gave a public warning about several things people should do if they want to provide money to help with the relief operations. First and foremost, don’t use wire transfers and never give your credit card data, bank details, or Social Security numbers to people or groups you don’t know. These are classic signs of a scam.
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Paxton also said that when picking a place to give, people should use sources that are well-known and can be trusted. Tools like CharityWatch and GuideStar let donors check out nonprofit groups in depth and make sure their money is going to the proper people. He also warned not to give money through links received in unsolicited text messages, a scam technique called “smishing” that is commonly employed by people pretending to be genuine charities.
Texans are also asked to sign up for the Texas Do Not Call Registry or the national equivalent to cut down on unwanted calls and texts that can often lead to frauds.
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If you see a questionable fundraising campaign or think someone is acting fraudulently in connection with flood relief, you should report it directly to the Texas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. Paxton’s office has a toll-free hotline and an online form where anyone can file reports.
“My prayers continue to be with those who have been impacted by this devastating tragedy,” Paxton said, reaffirming his commitment to the safety and wellbeing of Texas communities.
The Attorney General’s official website has information for residents who want to know more about how to donate safely and effectively. Texans can make sure their donations really help flood victims and not people who are trying to take advantage of the situation by remaining attentive and checking out organizations before giving.
