Council issues warning over fake fundraising pages for wildfire victims
The council's chief executive has urged people not to donate through the pages
Dudley Borough Council has warned the public about fake online crowdfunding pages claiming to raise money for people affected by the recent Stourbridge fires.
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The council’s chief executive Balvinder Heran issued the warning following a social media post on Friday highlighting "fake fundraising pages".
Ms Heran urged people not to donate through the pages, despite the “many kind offers”.
The warning comes after a huge fire spread across more than 500 acres in Stourbridge, with West Midlands Fire Service chief fire officer Simon Tuhill confirming one firefighter was taken to hospital before being discharged.
A further five firefighters suffered minor injuries, including from smoke inhalation.
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Several GoFundMe pages claiming to raise money for those affected by the fires have reportedly raised thousands of pounds.
In a video posted on the council’s website, Ms Heran said: "Unfortunately, incidents such as this can attract fundraising and donation scams, so I ask you to please remain vigilant and only donate through official channels."
Dudley Council also warned residents on social media after fake GoFundMe pages began circulating online, claiming to collect donations for people affected by the Stourbridge fire.
The council said on Facebook: “We are working on arrangements for an official way for residents to support those affected and will share details through our official channels when this is available. “
It added: "Please do not donate to any GoFundMe or other fundraising pages relating to the fire at this time."
Officials also urged people to remain "cautious when sharing or donating to online appeals, and help us spread the word so people don’t fall victim to scams".
A 23-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman, both from Stoke-on-Trent, have been arrested on suspicion of arson following a grass fire which damaged four homes in the city, Staffordshire Police said.
More wildfires have now hit England and Wales so far in 2026 than during the whole of 2025, with the latest fires across the West Midlands forcing residents to flee their homes as flames spread.