Scammers exploit border crisis

Sheriff warns they're asking for money, pretending to help illegal kids

Scammers may be trying to take advantage of the ongoing border crisis.

The Tulsa County Sheriff's Office is warning that con-artists have been posing as fundraisers for 501(c) non-profits, pretending to be helping the illegal immigrant kids from Central America.

The Sheriff's Office says you can verify an organization's tax-exempt status and eligibility to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions by going to the IRS website and using their search tool, asking to see an organization's IRS letter recognizing it as tax-exempt.

The Sheriff's Office says if you have been approached by an organization that you do not feel is credible, don't hesitate to contact your local law enforcement agency.

Also, you can call the IRS toll-free at 1-877-829-5500.