Attorney general urges residents to document suspicious prices, fake charities and deceptive fundraising campaigns
SANTA FE, N.M. — The New Mexico Department of Justice is warning residents to watch for price gouging, fraudulent charities and deceptive fundraising campaigns targeting communities affected by wildfires.
In a public advisory issued this week, Attorney General Raúl Torrez said disasters can create opportunities for dishonest businesses and scammers to take advantage of people who have evacuated or suffered property losses.
Price gouging may involve significant increases in the cost of essential goods and services during an emergency, according to the department. Residents should pay particular attention to prices charged for hotels, rental properties, extended-stay lodging, housing, groceries, restaurant meals, fuel, lumber, pet supplies and livestock needs.
The warning comes as wildfire activity continues to affect New Mexico communities, forcing some residents to seek temporary lodging, transportation, food and other necessities. The department also cautioned residents against fraudulent fundraising efforts. Scammers may pose as representatives of established charities, mislead donors about how contributions will be
used or create fake crowdfunding campaigns on websites such as GoFundMe. Before donating, residents should verify the identity of the person or organization collecting money and determine how the funds will be distributed. Donors should also be cautious of campaigns that provide few details, use emotional pressure, or request payment through unusual methods. Anyone who witnesses or experiences suspected price gouging or fraud may submit a report to the New Mexico Department of Justice through its online assistance portal at nmdoj.gov/get-help or by calling 505-490-4060 and selecting option 3. The department recommends including as much information as possible in a complaint, including the name and location of the business or person involved, a description of the suspected activity, the date and time of the incident, and supporting documentation. Receipts, advertisements, photographs, screenshots and copies of fundraising solicitations may help investigators determine whether additional action is warranted. The Department of Justice has also published English- and Spanish-language guidance explaining how residents can recognize and report suspected wildfire-related price gouging. Officials urged New Mexicans to remain alert throughout wildfire season and to report questionable business practices or fundraising campaigns as quickly as possible.
