Multiple federal agencies have issued warnings about fraud in the wake of Hurricane Helen.
“The effects of disasters that affect the public are not only due to the disasters themselves, but also to scammers who take advantage of victims of disasters and to well-meaning people who want to help those affected.” said District Attorney Sandra J. hairston stated in the press release Monday.
“These criminals take advantage of victims before, during and after a natural disaster, targeting people when they are most vulnerable, and their fraud methods vary widely,” Hairston continued.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of North Carolina advises people not to “assume that charity solicitations posted on the Internet or social media are legal” and to “never click on links in unsolicited emails, instant messages, or text messages. '' recommended that such actions be taken. , etc. ”
Hurricane Helen has caused significant damage in the southeastern United States, especially in western North Carolina. At least 175 people died as a result of the storm. On Wednesday, President Biden directed the Pentagon to send up to 1,000 troops to Helen-affected areas to distribute food, water and supplies.
among them own monday press releasethe Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) warned Florida residents, “After Hurricane Helen, scammers and criminals may seek to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud and identity theft.'' We should be careful about this.”
“In some cases, thieves attempt to apply for FEMA assistance using stolen names, addresses, and Social Security numbers from people affected by disasters,” the release said.
FEMA also said that “Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) personnel, housing inspectors, and other personnel will be working in areas affected by Hurricane Helen,” and that those people must have “official photo identification.” I carry a badge,” he said.
“FEMA representatives will never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections, or assistance filling out applications,” the release continued. “Their service is free.”
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Found in Tuesday's Alert to Consumers It includes “several ways scammers are trying to steal money and personal information after Hurricane Helen,” including scammers impersonating officials “such as safety inspectors and government officials.” It also includes possibilities.
