Illinois AG Warns of Hurricane Relief Scams

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul has issued a warning to residents about potential fundraising scams following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. He advises donors to research whether charities provide direct aid or merely raise funds for other organizations, emphasizing the importance of giving directly to charities with a presence in the affected regions. Raoul cautioned against in-kind donations like clothing and food, which may burden organizations lacking the infrastructure to distribute them. He also suggested that donors be skeptical of charity recommendations on social media and to ask how much of their donation will directly aid the cause. Furthermore, he recommended secure payment methods and advised against cash or peer-to-peer payments. This guidance aims to ensure that donations effectively support legitimate relief efforts.