FRAUD ALERT: Calls Collecting Blue Cut Fire Donations on Behalf of CALFIRE

SAN BERNARDINO – Much like crime during a disaster, fraud in the face of disaster recovery can be considered one of the most despicable crimes. The Blue Cut fires affected numerous residents, some through the evacuation and others through the loss of a home and/or pet(s). The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department was alerted to a man calling stating that he represents CAL FIRE and is collecting donations to assist those displaced by the Blue Cut Fire.

When contacted by the Sheriff’s Department, CAL FIRE officials confirmed that they are not soliciting donations. Those receiving any calls requesting personal or banking information should not give the information to the caller. CAL FIRE will not call and ask for donations, officials said.

Anyone receiving these or similar calls are asked to report the call to your local law enforcement agency. If you have made a donation to a caller claiming to be a CALFIRE representative you are also asked to call your local law enforcement agency.

Those interested in making a cash donation should do so through the Inland Empire United Way online at www.ieuw.org/help or by texting “RELIEF” to 40403.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact Deputy H. Hubbard at the Phelan Sheriff’s Station at (760) 868-1006 between the hours of 8am – pm. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com.

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