Warning issued on wildfire donation scam

There is a new scam on the Internet where victims are sent emails purporting to be from the IRS asking for donations for victims of California's wildfires.

A warning has been issued by the IRS that the phishing scam is attempting to make victims hand over their personal and financial details. The IRS stated that it never sends unsolicited emails asking for financial information. Those that receive the fake email should forward it on to the IRS' website immediately the agency urged.

Richard Spires, IRS deputy commissioner for operations support, said: "People should exercise caution when they receive unsolicited e-mail or email from senders they don't know." Approximately 1,800 square kilometers were laid to waste and 14 people were killed by the extensive wildfires in California during the last few weeks.

The fires, which destroyed thousands of homes, were exacerbated by California's worst drought in 130 years.

Verizon Donates $60,000 and Free Calling Services to Aid Victims of Southern California Wildfires

Verizon Helps Keep Evacuees, Responders Connected During Crisis

Verizon is stepping up with a $60,000 grant to assist Southern Californians forced from their homes amid devastating wildfires that have swept across the region.

Verizon is also providing evacuees with a range of free calling services - from cell phones to automatic call-forwarding - to help them stay connected during the natural disaster. "Ourhttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif neighbors are in trouble and we want to help," said Verizon West Region President Tim McCallion. "Communicating in times of crisis is critical, and obviously many people need food, shelter and other basic necessities. We are providing an array of financial and operational support to those who have been displaced by these devastating fires, and we intend to help make the homeowners, business owners and relief workers' lives a little easier during this very trying time."

The Verizon Foundation will donate $60,000 to the American Red Cross for fire victims, with the grant to be divided equally among the Los Angeles, San Bernardino, San Diego and Riverside county chapters of the Red Cross.