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Scammers Take Advantage Of Generosity For Fire Victims

DENVER (CBS4)- As many rush to help those who have lost everything in the devastating wildfires, scammers are taking advantage of that generosity.

One of those cons involves suspicious phone calls soliciting donations for the Red Cross.

"When we see that disaster we all want to help and unfortunately it's that instinct that sometimes is taken advantage of," said Red Cross spokeswoman Sara Kennedy.

The Red Cross is warning people to watch out.

"It was brought to our attention that some automated phone calls were being made that implicated the Red Cross was taking donations. But we can't verify what exactly was being said," said Kennedy.

Whatever was stated during the phone calls, the Red Cross said it wasn't their organization.

Unfortunately the Red Cross said this isn't unusual.

"That kind of thing unfortunately happens in any large disaster and not just to the Red Cross but to all of our partner agencies," said Kennedy.

If there is any question about whether a donation solicitation is legitimate, just ask.

"If you get a call and you're not sure it's from the Red Cross go ahead and give us a call and we can verify that for you," said Kennedy.

Near the High Park Fire, the Larimer County Sheriff's Office said some people are going through neighborhoods trying to charge victims for damage inspections. Anyone who encounters that situation is urged to call police.

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