Devastating wildfires have destroyed neighborhoods in Southern California, leading to the loss of homes and the evacuation of thousands. While the damage appears overwhelming, disaster relief is accessible through nonprofit organizations and state and federal agencies. Sadly, criminals often take advantage of tragedies to defraud those who are most vulnerable. Individuals who want to help those affected or those in need of aid and resources may also become targets for cybercriminals looking to exploit the crisis.
Here are some key things to watch for in the aftermath of a natural disaster.
Stay Wary of Impostors
There are those who will impersonate representatives from FEMA, the American Red Cross, or other disaster relief organizations, offering financial aid in exchange for sensitive details like Social Security numbers or bank account information. Here are some key points about FEMA inspectors to remember:
- FEMA inspectors always carry official government identification, which they must show you if you ask to see it.
- FEMA never charges inspection fees
- Housing inspectors will never ask for a 9-digit registration number
Others will claim to be utility workers or insurance representatives who can help you or need information from you. Often, these individuals will claim immediate payment to keep your coverage or service active. Take the time to independently verify any claims by contacting the company directly using a phone number from their official website or your account documents.
Verify the Legitimacy of Charities
Be cautious if you receive requests for wildfire support via social media, text, or email. It can be hard to tell which charities are legitimate, as scammers may use tactics like manipulating Caller ID and artificial intelligence to appear credible. They often pressure you to donate immediately using untraceable methods like gift cards or wire transfers. Remember, a legitimate charity will never use pressure tactics to solicit donations.
If you're uncertain about the legitimacy of a charity, the Federal Trade Commission provides a list of free tools that can help you decide if one is real. Legitimate crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe have compiled a list of verified fundraisers, and the company states it has a team to monitor and update the page with legitimate fundraisers.
Contractor & Inspection Scams
For those who have suffered damages from a disaster, rebuilding as soon as possible becomes a top priority. Slow down and take a beat. Be cautious of contractors who may promise immediate repairs in exchange for an upfront payment, only to take your money and run. It's also a red flag if they won't provide you with a written contract, references, or a copy of their license. Be skeptical if a contractor tells you they "know the system" or will do immediate work.
Stay Vigilant and Informed
It's important to independently verify the identity of anyone claiming to offer assistance. Here are other tips to stay vigilant:
- Do not trust caller ID—it can be spoofed to appear legitimate. Scammers often use "masking" technology to disguise their contact information, making calls or texts that seem to come from a legitimate organization.
- Never share sensitive information such as usernames or passwords over the telephone, email, or text. For example, River City Bank will never contact you unsolicited and request this information.
- Be wary of vague programs that don't clearly explain their mission. Research your charity on give.org or charitywatch.org to make sure it's trustworthy.
Together, we can navigate these challenging times while ensuring the safety of our communities and protecting against fraud. To learn more about the latest scam, visit River City Bank's Safety and Security page.
