AUGUSTA (AP) – Maine has joined the federal government in a nationwide crackdown on bogus charitable solicitors.

Attorney General Janet Mills and Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap said the state’s joined the Federal Trade Commission and 61 other agencies in 48 states and the District of Columbia in Operation False Charity.

Mills said that during the past 18 months, eight cease and desist letters have been issued to unlicensed charities in Maine. Four of them promptly applied for and received licenses to solicit funds, and one admitted to having an unlicensed practice and paid a $7,500 fine before getting a license.

Consumers can find out if a nonprofit is authorized to do business in Maine by calling 207-624-7752.