State officials are investigating attempts by out-of-state entities to offer help securing social equity licenses for Delaware’s recreational marijuana program.

The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner warned that out-of-state entities may be trying to trick Delawareans into paying for help to secure social equity licenses through the state’s future recreational marijuana program.

The office has received reports that these entities are contacting potential social equity applicants in Delaware, purporting to provide help with securing a recreational marijuana license through the social equity program.

Delaware’s Office of the Marijuana Commissioner on Tuesday said it “does not endorse these activities and is working to investigate them” by partnering with the Department of Justice and the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement (DATE).

The office in June unveiled an online database and mapping system to help residents determine whether they live in a community that has been disproportionately impacted by marijuana-related arrests and convictions. State officials also held a series of public workshops to help potential social equity applicants familiarize themselves with the program and guide them in the process of applying for and securing a license.

Tips for protecting yourself

Delaware’s marijuana commissioner offered the following tips to protect residents from this type of solicitation:

• Do not pay upfront fees for help obtaining a social equity license.

• Beware of unsolicited calls, postcards or emails promising to guarantee a license.

• Trust official sources for information on social equity licensing. Refer to the marijuana commissioner’s website or contact them directly for guidance.

• Consult with an attorney before signing any agreements or contracts.

Residents are being asked to report any suspicious activity, like being contacted by an entity offering help to secure a social equity license for a fee, to the commissioner at omc.delaware.gov.

More about Delaware’s recreational cannabis program

SOCIAL EQUITY ELIGIBILITY: Find out if you live in an area that qualifies for Delaware’s cannabis equity program

IMPACTED COMMUNITIES: How residents affected by marijuana laws can enter the business

WHEN DO STORES OPEN?: Delaware is on track for starting recreational weed sales

WEED FRIENDLY FOODS: Deliciously Dope Dime Bag and other offers help with the munchies

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware social equity cannabis license program target of new scam