Fake Cal Fire social media accounts are asking for donations

LOS ANGELES (KTLA) – As Los Angeles begins rebuilding after the devastating Palisades and Eaton fires leveled entire communities, fraudsters and scammers have taken to social media to take advantage.

Unfortunately, the scammers are now impersonating government agencies.

In a news release Thursday night, Cal Fire said that fake social media profiles impersonating the department have popped up, asking for donations.

Cal Fire then clarified that it does not accept or request donations, either online or in person.

All official Cal Fire social media accounts are verified on their respective platforms, like Facebook and X, and are thus accompanied by a “checkmark” next to their username.

Those looking to donate to fire victims have plenty of legitimate avenues to do so. KTLA has compiled a list of fundraisers and charitable organizations, and it can be viewed here.