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.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, a devastating blow has left Rod Ashby grappling not only with the tragic disappearance of his wife, Kim, but also with an unexpected financial nightmare. As he continues his desperate search for Kim in the rugged mountains of western North Carolina, a scam has stripped him of nearly $40,000, money that was meant to buy him the necessary vehicle to aid in his search.
Rod and Kim, who lived in Sanford, North Carolina, were at their mountain cabin near Banner Elk when the hurricane struck. When floodwaters overtook their home, the couple clung to each other, fighting against the relentless force of the water. Tragically, their grip was broken as they struck a tree, and Rod, though able to make it to safety, hasn’t seen Kim since. More than a month has passed, and Rod’s hope for closure remains as fierce as ever. In these weeks, with family by his side, Rod has returned to the mountains, joined by search crews in his unwavering pursuit of his missing wife.
However, the search has not been without obstacles. The hurricane destroyed Rod’s truck, leaving him without a reliable means to navigate the steep, muddy mountain roads. Staying with family in Pittsboro, he resolved to find a replacement, a four-wheel drive vehicle capable of tackling the treacherous terrain where he believes he may still find Kim. In his search, he found what he thought was an ideal solution, a 2020 Ford F-350 listed online at $38,900, advertised by a Colorado-based business specializing in repossessed vehicles. Although Rod’s daughter was initially skeptical, the transaction seemed legitimate. The phone calls, emails, and even a formal bill of sale all appeared authentic. But soon after wiring the money, they began to suspect the deal was not what it seemed. The truck remained listed on the website, and their follow-up inquiries began to go unanswered.
The heartbreaking reality soon became clear: the truck did not exist, and the business was nothing more than an elaborate imitation of a legitimate dealership. Rod and his family contacted the banks involved and filed a fraud report, only to face an agonizing wait, potentially 90 days, to see if they might recover any of the lost funds. This setback, another blow in an already unimaginable situation, struck a deep nerve. For Rod, time is crucial; each day that passes is another without the closure he seeks, another day he cannot be out on the mountain, hoping to bring Kim home.
The legitimate business that the scammer had copied reported that they had been flooded with similar cases, with people across the country falling victim to the same deceptive tactics. The scammer’s scheme of underpricing vehicles preyed on those seeking a good deal, especially people in urgent situations like Rod. The business owner, aware of the far-reaching effects of these scams, is now working with law enforcement to prevent further victims. The Ashby family, however, is left grappling with the emotional and financial consequences of this betrayal.
Rod’s story serves as a sobering reminder of the risks of online transactions, especially when urgency and emotional stakes are high. Scammers prey on those who might let their guard down due to stress, grief, or pressing need, and, as Rod’s experience highlights, they can convincingly replicate legitimate businesses to the unsuspecting eye. While law enforcement investigates, the Ashby family and their supporters are forced to wait, their lives altered by a combination of natural disaster and human deceit.
Avoiding online scams, especially when buying high-value items like vehicles, requires vigilance and careful verification. Here are some essential steps to safeguard against falling victim to such schemes.
First, thoroughly research the seller. Start by searching for the dealership or business name online. Legitimate businesses often have an established presence with a verifiable website, social media profiles, and customer reviews. Be wary of any dealership that lacks a history or only has a recently created website or social media page, as scammers frequently create ‘shell’ sites to impersonate legitimate businesses.
Verify contact information on official channels. Instead of relying on phone numbers or emails provided on a specific site, cross-check them with official listings or other trusted sources. A simple call to the real business can often confirm whether they are associated with the listing. If possible, visit the dealership in person or ask a trusted contact nearby to confirm the vehicle’s availability and condition.
Avoid paying via wire transfer whenever possible. Wire transfers offer little protection for buyers, as once funds are sent, they are challenging to recover. Reputable dealerships typically accept other, safer forms of payment that offer some level of recourse, such as credit cards or certified checks. If a seller insists on a wire transfer, especially to a personal account or a different name than the business, this is a major red flag.
Use a vehicle history report service to verify the vehicle’s existence and ownership records. Services like Carfax or AutoCheck allow you to input the vehicle identification number (VIN) and receive detailed information about the car’s history, including its ownership, accident history, and maintenance records. Scammers may avoid providing a VIN, or give a fake one, so this step can help confirm a vehicle’s legitimacy.
Carefully review documents and be skeptical of underpriced deals. Deals that appear too good to be true often are, as scammers tend to price vehicles attractively to bypass buyers’ usual caution. Examine all documentation for inconsistencies, such as misspellings, unusual formatting, or unfamiliar terms in contracts or sales agreements.
If possible, work with your bank to escrow funds or use a secure payment platform that can hold funds in trust until the vehicle is confirmed. Some banks and online services offer escrow accounts that protect funds until both parties are satisfied with the transaction, ensuring a level of security in case something goes awry.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to seek advice from others, especially friends or family with experience in buying vehicles online. A second set of eyes can often spot red flags that might be overlooked. And if a purchase ever feels off, listen to that instinct. Taking time to verify details can be the best defense against the heartache and financial loss of falling victim to a scam.
By taking these precautions, buyers can greatly reduce the risk of being scammed, even in high-stakes, emotionally charged situations like Rod Ashby’s. Scammers thrive on desperation and urgency, so maintaining a level of caution, even in challenging times, can protect you from becoming a victim.
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.
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.
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