x
Breaking News
More () »

Fake online fundraisers stealing from Surfside relief efforts, Florida CFO warns

"Bad actors will look to set up false charity sites in the hopes of using this tragedy for their own personal gain," CFO Jimmy Patronis said.

SURFSIDE, Fla. — (Note: The video above was originally published June 25.)

Florida's chief financial officer is warning people looking to donate to those affected by the deadly building collapse in Surfside to be cautious of fraudulent sites posing as legitimate relief efforts.

CFO Jimmy Patronis issued a statement Thursday, saying in the wake of the condo collapse, "bad actors will look to set up false charity sites in the hopes of using this tragedy for their own personal gain."

While Patronis' warning specifies "false GoFundMe websites," a GoFundMe spokesperson told First Coast News there have been no fraudulent fundraisers created on its platform and that its team works hard to monitor all campaigns created relating to the tragedy.

RELATED: Help on the way: Here's how to donate to Surfside

At least 18 bodies have been found so far among the rubble of the 12-story building that partially collapsed June 24. There are 145 people unaccounted for, but rescue efforts were halted Thursday over concerns about the stability of the building's remaining structure.

Hundreds of search-and-rescue personnel have been searching the rubble for signs of life, but no survivors have been rescued since the first hours following the collapse. Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department sent 80 men and women to assist with rescue efforts.

Click here for a list of verified relief organizations and fundraisers if you would like to help those affected by the tragedy and the families of the victims.

If you believe you have been the victim of an imposter Surfside GoFundMe campaign or other fraud, you can report it immediately at FraudFreeFlorida.com.

Scroll down to read Patronis' full statement.

RELATED: Rescue efforts at Florida condo halted over structure stability concerns

Story continues below.

Full statement from Patronis:

“Since I’ve been at this collapse site, I’ve seen the best in humanity. I’ve seen our Urban Search & Rescue teams put their lives on the line to save people, I’ve seen countless acts of kindness with people that live in this community in supporting our first responders, and I’ve seen a community come together to pray and support one another in this tragedy. With all the good I’ve been witness to, however, we are starting to get reports of false GoFundMe websites that are stealing from this effort. It’s disgusting – and as far as I’m concerned – it’s right up there with looting after a hurricane. To people that want to help this effort, please make sure your putting your hard-earned money into a credible organization that will help the families that have been truly impacted by this collapse.”

Before You Leave, Check This Out