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  • Geebo 9:00 am on November 15, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , hurricane, , ,   

    A FEMA Scam Warning for All Disasters 

    A FEMA Scam Warning for All Disasters

    By Greg Collier

    In the wake of Hurricane Helene, FEMA is urging residents of Georgia, and all Americans, to be on high alert for scams and fraudulent schemes. Natural disasters, while bringing communities together in times of need, unfortunately also provide opportunities for criminals to exploit vulnerable individuals. These deceptive tactics often aim to steal money or sensitive personal information from those already facing significant challenges.

    Fraudulent activities can take many forms in the aftermath of a disaster. One common method involves the unauthorized use of personal information, such as Social Security numbers and addresses, to apply for FEMA assistance. This can result in individuals discovering fraudulent claims made in their name, sometimes only after a FEMA inspector visits their home, or they receive an unexpected letter from the agency.

    If you are contacted by a FEMA representative or inspector, and you have not applied for assistance, it is crucial to act promptly. Inform the FEMA inspector that you did not submit an application, allowing them to flag the fraudulent claim and halt its processing. Similarly, if you receive a letter from FEMA regarding assistance you did not request, contact the FEMA Helpline immediately at 1-800-621-3326 to address the issue. Should you decide to seek assistance after reporting a fraudulent claim, FEMA will guide you through submitting a legitimate application.

    FEMA officials stress that their representatives, including Disaster Survivor Assistance teams and housing inspectors, will always carry official photo identification. Importantly, FEMA does not charge for its services. Assistance applications, disaster inspections, and other forms of support are provided at no cost. Any promise of expedited grants or benefits in exchange for payment is a clear red flag of fraudulent activity. Additionally, FEMA inspectors are not authorized to request your banking or financial information during their visits.

    If you suspect fraudulent activity or believe you have been targeted, report it immediately to your local law enforcement or contact Georgia’s Consumer Protection Division through the Office of the Attorney General. Taking swift action helps protect your personal information and ensures that legitimate disaster recovery efforts can continue unhindered.

    FEMA’s warning applies not just in Georgia, but across the United States, wherever natural disasters may strike. Whether facing hurricanes, floods, wildfires, or any other emergencies, staying informed and cautious is essential to safeguarding yourself and your community.

     

  • Geebo 8:09 am on October 9, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , hurricane, ,   

    Beware of Flood-Damaged Cars After Hurricanes 

    Beware of Flood-Damaged Cars After Hurricanes

    By Greg Collier

    As hurricane season wreaks havoc on communities, the aftermath often brings unexpected consequences for car buyers. Among the hidden dangers are flood-damaged vehicles making their way into the used car market. Once the floodwaters recede, many of these cars are cleaned up and sold at auctions, with some landing in the driveways of unsuspecting buyers across the country. Even if you live far from the storm-affected areas, these cars can end up in your local market, as flood-damaged vehicles are often transported and resold nationwide.

    Flood damage can cause severe problems for vehicles, affecting everything from electronics to mechanical components. Unfortunately, these issues aren’t always immediately apparent. In some cases, flood-damaged vehicles are sold before damage reports surface, leaving buyers with little protection. While popular tools like vehicle history reports are helpful, they are not foolproof. Buyers should understand that flood damage may not always be flagged right away, or even at all.

    To avoid purchasing a car that’s been through a flood, it’s essential to take proactive steps. One of the best ways to protect yourself is by getting an independent mechanical inspection before buying any used vehicle. This extra precaution can help identify hidden damage that a quick cleanup or a vehicle history report might not reveal.

    When shopping online for a vehicle, be especially cautious. Sellers posing as private individuals may actually be dealers flipping cars, making it harder to track the vehicle’s true history. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as they may involve flood-damaged cars.

    Although it’s legal to resell flood-damaged vehicles, they should carry a rebuilt title to indicate that the necessary repairs have been made. However, the hidden damage, such as rust under carpets or water in electrical components, can still lead to long-term issues. Rusted metal, malfunctioning electronics, and waterlogged parts can significantly shorten a car’s lifespan and increase the chances of costly repairs.

    In summary, if you’re in the market for a used car following hurricane season, take the time to research and inspect before committing to a purchase. Flood-damaged vehicles can show up anywhere in the country, so protecting yourself involves diligence, skepticism, and securing an independent inspection to ensure you’re not buying a car with hidden water damage.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on October 2, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , hurricane, , ,   

    Ensure Your Donations Reach Hurricane Victims 

    Ensure Your Donations Reach Hurricane Victims

    By Greg Collier

    In the wake of any major hurricane, such as Hurricane Helene, communities come together, eager to offer help. It’s during these critical times that victims rely on charitable donations for essentials like food, water, shelter, and medical aid. Unfortunately, natural disasters also create opportunities for scammers to exploit that goodwill. Before opening your wallet, it’s important to take extra precautions to ensure your donation is truly helping those affected.

    The Rise of Donation Scams During Disasters

    Every time a disaster strikes, fraudulent fundraising efforts spike. Scammers will go to great lengths, posing as legitimate organizations or setting up fake crowdfunding campaigns to deceive generous individuals. The FBI has noted a significant increase in phishing scams after hurricanes, often involving impersonation of trusted organizations like the Red Cross. These fake appeals can come via email, social media, or even text messages.

    To protect yourself and ensure your contribution goes where it’s needed, follow these steps before making a donation.

    Verify the Charity’s Legitimacy

    One of the easiest ways to protect yourself from fraud is to verify the charity you’re donating to. Scammers often send fake emails or text messages with slight variations in the names of well-known organizations, like “Red Cros” instead of “Red Cross.” They may also direct you to private payment platforms like PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo, which legitimate charities rarely use.

    Before donating, check if the charity is recognized and reputable by visiting websites such as Give.org or Charity Navigator. These platforms provide ratings and reviews of charitable organizations, helping you confirm that your donation will reach those in need.

    Be Skeptical of Email and Text Requests

    Legitimate charities will not cold-email or text you asking for donations. If you receive such requests, especially if they ask for quick payment through private platforms or cryptocurrency, consider it a red flag. It’s best to donate directly through the charity’s official website.

    If you’re unsure about a donation request, go directly to the charity’s website by typing the URL into your browser instead of clicking on links in unsolicited emails or messages. This ensures you’re visiting the correct site and not a phishing attempt.

    Check Crowdfunding Campaigns Carefully

    Crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe light up with requests for help after hurricanes. While many are legitimate, it’s essential to ensure you’re contributing to verified campaigns. GoFundMe has a “verified” feature for campaigns that have been confirmed to reach the intended recipients, but even with verification, be cautious if you don’t know the person running the campaign.

    If you’re moved to help an individual, research their story carefully. Look for details, follow-up posts, and proof that the campaign is legitimate. Whenever possible, it’s better to give to well-established organizations that specialize in disaster relief and have a track record of success.

    Avoid Door-to-Door or Phone Solicitation

    Scammers often take advantage of disaster situations by going door-to-door, claiming to be from a legitimate charity. While this might seem like a direct way to contribute, it’s also one of the most common methods used by fraudsters.

    If someone approaches you with a solicitation, ask for identification and any materials related to the organization they claim to represent. It’s always safer to donate through the organization’s website rather than handing over cash or personal information to a stranger.

    Donate Directly to Major Organizations

    To avoid the risk of fraud entirely, it’s always a good idea to donate directly to major, well-known organizations that have a long history of hurricane and disaster relief. Organizations like the Red Cross are transparent about where your dollars go and have extensive systems in place to ensure donations reach those who need them most.

    Give Generously, But Wisely

    The desire to help in the aftermath of a hurricane is natural, and your generosity can make a real difference in the lives of victims. However, taking a few extra steps to verify where your money is going can prevent scammers from capitalizing on your good intentions. By carefully vetting the charities you support, avoiding unsolicited emails or texts, and sticking to trusted organizations, you can ensure that your donation is reaching those who need it the most.

    Hurricanes can bring out the best in people, but they also attract those looking to exploit. Stay alert, do your research, and give wisely.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 27, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: hurricane, , , , storm chasers,   

    Beware of Scammers After Severe Weather Strikes 

    Beware of Scammers After Severe Weather Strikes

    By Greg Collier

    As Hurricane Helene approaches or makes landfall, the safety of those in the affected areas remains the top priority. This Category 4 storm is expected to bring significant damage to the Florida Panhandle and Southern Georgia. Amid the focus on recovery and well-being, it’s important to also be mindful of potential scams that often surface in the aftermath of natural disasters. Unfortunately, some individuals will exploit these vulnerable times, posing as helpful contractors or service providers. We want to take this opportunity to remind storm victims on how to protect themselves from these con artists.

    After severe weather strikes, it’s not just the damage to homes and properties that residents need to worry about, scammers often take advantage of the chaos, looking to make a quick profit. These opportunists, often referred to as ‘storm chasers’, are not local contractors but individuals who travel from out of state to target areas affected by storms. With legitimate contractors overwhelmed by the sudden demand for repairs, these scammers see a chance to prey on vulnerable homeowners.

    Storm chasers typically present themselves as roofers, tree trimmers, or public adjusters, going door to door in damaged neighborhoods offering their services. While their offers might seem convenient in the wake of a storm, it’s crucial to take a few precautionary steps to ensure you’re dealing with a legitimate professional.

    First, always ask for identification and proof of a business license before agreeing to any work. It’s essential to verify their credentials to ensure they are who they claim to be. Additionally, it’s important to contact your insurance company before proceeding with any repairs. Familiarize yourself with your policy to understand what is covered, so you can avoid any unnecessary expenses or scams.

    While it may seem like a relief to hear someone offer quick fixes, it’s vital to get any agreements in writing. Be extremely cautious when signing anything, especially documents related to your insurance coverage. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to convince homeowners to sign on the spot, claiming that immediate action is needed. This is often a red flag, as reputable contractors will not rush you into a decision.

    It’s also important to take the time to research the company offering repairs. A great starting point is the Better Business Bureau, which can provide information on the credibility and reliability of the contractor. Doing your due diligence now can save you from much larger headaches down the road.

    In preparation for future storms, one proactive step you can take is to document the current state of your property. Walking around your home or business and taking photos or videos of your windows, roof, and other key areas can help you compare conditions after a storm, making it easier to spot genuine damage and avoid being misled by fraudulent contractors.

    In times of disaster, it’s natural to want to restore normalcy as quickly as possible. However, taking these precautions can prevent you from falling victim to the scammers who look to exploit these situations for personal gain.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on October 12, 2022 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , hurricane, , ,   

    Flood damaged cars are about to hit the market 

    Flood damaged cars are about to hit the market

    By Greg Collier

    By some estimates, 300,000 cars were damaged by flooding in the wake of Hurricane Ian. Many of them will end up being a total loss. However, this won’t stop many of these vehicles from ending up on car lots in states that weren’t affected by the storm. Potentially, you could be car shopping in Arizona and end up buying a flood damaged car from Florida without even knowing.

    This is done through a process called title-washing. When a car damaged to the point where the insurance company considers it a loss, the car is issued a salvage title. The problem with salvage titles is the amount of damage required varies by state. For example, one state may require the car’s damage to be 75% of its worth. Meanwhile, another state may require the damage to be 85% of the car’s worth. This way, unscrupulous car dealers could move the car from one state to the other to get a clean title.

    You can protect yourself from this scam. One of the best ways is to get a vehicle history of the car from a service like CARFAX. This could help you pinpoint if a vehicle was in a certain area during a natural disaster.

    A thorough inspection of the vehicle is also recommended to avoid buying a flood car. If the car smells musty, there’s a good chance it’s been caught in a flood. Also, be wary of a car that has an overpowering smell of air freshener or deodorizer, as that could be covering up the musty smell. Look for signs of water damage like mud and waterlines. Look for them in places like the trunk, under the dashboard, and in the glove box. You should also check for inordinate amounts of rust for a vehicle that may not be as old as it looks.

    Lastly, if you suspect someone of trying to sell you a damaged flood vehicle, you can report it to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline toll-free at 866-720-5721 or at the FTC’s website.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on October 3, 2022 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: hurricane, , power restoration, ,   

    Scammers promise to restore power in wake of hurricane 

    Scammers promise to restore power in wake of hurricane

    By Greg Collier

    Hurricane Ian was one of the most devastating storms to ever make landfall in the US. In Florida alone, roughly 2 million residents are still without power. They may not see their power restored until later this week or possibly next week. And that’s with over 20,000 electrical workers working around the clock. Leave it to scammers though to make the worst out of an already bad situation.

    With so many Florida residents being without power, the scammers saw this as an opportunity. The scammers are posing as one of Florida’s major power providers and promising victims they can get their power restored faster if they make a payment. Victims are being sent barcodes or QR codes that appear to mimic the power company’s online payment system. Except, the payments are going to scammers rather than the power company.

    Power companies do not prioritize certain customers after an extreme outage like this. Typically, power is first restored to critical services like hospitals and emergency services. Then power is restored to customers in the quickest way possible. There is no way they can prioritize one customer over another on a house by house basis.

    While it may sound tempting in the moments after a natural disaster, if someone claims they can turn your power on sooner for money, they are trying to scam you.

    This is just one of many scams that can plague the victims of natural disasters. Typically, scammers may try to file a FEMA claim in your name before you can. If a FEMA representative shows up at your home before you’ve contacted them, a scammer may have filed a claim in your name. Then there are the phony contractors that chase storms like this looking for victims. The Cape Coral police have several tips on how to avoid these con artists.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 30, 2022 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , hurricane, , ,   

    The hurricane hostage scam 

    The hurricane hostage scam

    By Greg Collier

    Whenever there is a hurricane or other natural disaster in the country, we typically warn our readers about the usual scams. For example, we warn our readers that if they ever experience damage to your home from a natural disaster, be wary of contractors who drive up to your home offering to make repairs. Often these contractors are unlicensed and are looking to make a quick buck with shoddy work. We also tell our readers to be wary of unsolicited calls from FEMA or insurance companies. They could be scammers looking to get your financial or personal information. Our readers from outside the disaster area also get warned to be aware of fake charities claiming to be collecting for the victims, as they could be scams as well. For the first time, we now have to warn our readers about scammers who claim to have found a family member in the storms.

    A retiree from Florida did not evacuate her home in the days leading up to Hurricane Ian making landfall. She had survived many previous hurricanes in her home, and the hurricane was predicted to miss her area. The predictions were incorrect. The retiree was on the phone with her daughter during the hurricane while showing her daughter video of the flooding taking place in the home.

    The call then went silent. The daughter, who also lives in Florida, called everyone she could think of to try to assist her mother. She called 911, the Coast Guard, and people she knew in the area her mom lived in. As a last resort, she took to social media, hoping someone could help her find her mother. She received a text from someone who claimed to have found her mother. However, the text sender said that the daughter needed to send close to $600 first to cover the cost of a hotel. The daughter knew something was suspect about the text and asked the person for her mother’s middle name. The person didn’t know it and stopped communication.

    Thankfully, some of the people in the area were able to find the retiree, who was relatively unharmed.

    If this scam sounds familiar to you, that’s because it’s the same scam that targets the owner’s of lost pets. It’s disturbing to think that there are people out there who are just waiting for someone to ask about a missing loved one in a hurricane, so they can try to scam them.

    The daughter handled the scammer about as perfectly as anyone could. She asked a question that only her mother would know. When confronted with that kind of questioning, scammers usually disappear.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on August 30, 2021 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Gulf Coast, hurricane, hurricane ida, , ,   

    Price gouging, a concern in wake of hurricane 

    By Greg Collier

    With Hurricane Ida touching down in Louisiana, states of emergency have been declared in several Gulf Coast states. Typically, when a state of emergency is declared, laws go into effect that are designed to prevent price gouging. This is when vendors overcharge for products or services in order to maximize profit during a crisis. Historically, you might have seen gas stations and motels charging outlandish prices leading up to or in the wake of a hurricane. Some hardware and grocery stores have also been offenders of this practice in the past.

    Thanks to consumer protection laws in most storm-prone states, price gouging isn’t as much of a problem as it used to be. That’s not to say it still doesn’t happen. For example, if you were to travel to a state that’s not in a state of emergency to ride out the storm, you might encounter price gouging in the safe location. That’s also not to say that some vendors in the emergency areas won’t defy state law and try to gouge customers anyway.

    If you do happen to encounter price gouging, be sure to document it as well as you can. You can then report it to either the local police or the state’s Attorney General’s office. Some states even have price gouging hotlines that you can call if you’ve been victimized by a vendor. A quick web search should show you where price gouging can be reported in your area.

    We hope everyone who is living in the affected storm areas stays safe.

     

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