Disaster Scams and How to Avoid Them

As if being involved in a disaster like a fire, hurricane or tornado were not enough, there are people out there waiting to prey on those who have fallen victim. The following disaster scams have been reported nationally with some of the most recent coming in the wake of hurricane Sandy.

Why Victims Fall Prey

Think about this: when someone is involved in a disaster like the ones mentioned above, the first thing they think is that they need help – and they need it fast. Oftentimes, these people are so upset that they don’t take the time to check the qualifications of the companies who offer their help. As such, there are instances of ‘fake’ construction companies and cleaning crews accepting checks for work that they never intend to perform, cases of identity theft, and even false charities claiming to take up funds from people who weren’t even involved in the disaster. This turns the common consumer into a victim, as well.

Identity Theft

After a major disaster, a group called FEMA, or the Federal Emergency Management Agency, often takes information from those affected in order to provide relief funds and other aid. Con artists will often go door-to-door claiming to work for FEMA in order to gather your personal information for a purpose that is much more sinister. Please keep in mind that following a disaster, FEMA agents will never come to you and ask you for your information. You must contact them directly through an authorized telephone number or website.

Fake Charities

Following a disaster or crisis, crooks will often set up fake charities and promise that all of the proceeds collected will go to the victims. In all actuality, the only place those funds go is right into the pockets of the con artist. Before donating any sum of money to any charity – whether it is $5 or $500 – please be sure that you research it thoroughly. Never simply assume that someone is working for the Red Cross just because they say so; rather, take the time to do your research. Should you choose to donate to the Red Cross, you can do so through their website or by calling their official toll-free number.

False Victims

In contrast to the fake charity scam, there are some folks who will pretend to be victims of a disaster in which they were never even involved. People have gone so far as to say that their husbands, wives or children were killed although they never even existed in the first place. Although these stories may tug on your heartstrings, it’s important to remember that con artists are out there. It is better to donate to legitimate charities or even work directly with someone you know personally if they were affected by the disaster in any way.

While many of us don’t want to believe that someone could be cruel and heartless enough to take advantage of a disaster-ravaged community, it certainly can and does happen. Protecting yourself against these scams is the absolute best thing you can do to protect yourself.