A typical day for a scammer during hurricane season might begin with a cup of coffee and a detailed spreadsheet. This spreadsheet could be packed with personal information like names, ages, addresses, and even family details. Scammers might acquire this data by purchasing it, pulling it from various people-search websites, or assembling it from publicly available sources.
This alarming scenario means that charity scams related to hurricanes can emerge even before a storm makes headlines. By the time the news is filled with reports about the disaster, fraudsters might already have a target list for their dubious donation appeals.
As September marks National Preparedness Month, and the theme this year is “Americans Stand Ready,” it’s a stark reminder that while FEMA encourages individuals to create emergency plans and kits, scammers are hard at work devising schemes to profit from disasters.
How hurricane charity scams can target you before a storm
Interestingly, charity scammers aren’t waiting for disasters to begin hunting for victims. Data brokers and marketers have invested years gathering information about consumer behaviors, choices, and buying patterns.
One striking case revealed by the Department of Justice highlighted the risks of such targeted strategies. Epsilon Data Management utilized extensive consumer data to identify potential “responsive buyers.” Prosecutors uncovered that two executives knowingly sold these targeted lists to criminals for around a decade.
One of the clients who received these lists managed to scam over 218,000 individuals, resulting in losses exceeding $23.7 million. Alarmingly, more than 12,000 victims were targeted over 20 times. The court sentenced one executive to 10 years in prison and the other to four years. Epsilon also faced penalties totaling $150 million, with over $122 million being returned to the victims.
Although this case focused on mass-mailing fraud rather than hurricane scams, it emphasizes how personal data can enable fraudsters to choose their targets effectively.
The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center reported a troubling increase in charity fraud, documenting 662 complaints and losses totaling nearly $7.9 million in 2025 alone.
Why fake charity scams can reach almost anyone
It’s important to note that a scammer doesn’t need a track record of targeting specific individuals. They can access potential victims through various channels, including purchased lists, public records, robocalls, and other marketing methods.
An example of this is James Trankle, who operated three fake charities, such as the “Disabled and Paralyzed Veterans Fund.” He solicited donations from thousands of individuals, ultimately collecting over 1,600 personal checks, which he then used to create counterfeit checks. Many of those he defrauded were older adults, leading to a five-year prison sentence for him.
Similarly, Travis Peterson orchestrated a scheme over six years, using millions of robocalls to solicit donations for phony veterans’ charities, often targeting senior citizens. He received a sentence of 41 months and was ordered to pay over $541,000 in restitution.
These examples illustrate a critical point: when faced with an unexpected charity request, a little skepticism can go a long way—particularly if the caller seems to know personal information about you.
Why hurricane charity scams get worse after storms
Natural disasters evoke strong emotions and often a rush to help, which scammers are keen to exploit. Following Hurricane Helene, for instance, FEMA cautioned that criminals might use stolen identities and other personal data to fraudulently secure aid. The agency also warned residents to stay vigilant against impostors posing as inspectors or disaster recovery workers.
The FTC has similarly alerted the public to the rapid rise of fake charities and copycat organizations during weather emergencies. Some create websites or use names designed to resemble legitimate charities.
With hurricane season extending through the end of November, and with September marking its peak activity, the timing of National Preparedness Month feels particularly poignant. If you’re curious about personal data exposure online, you might consider running a free scan to see what information might be available on people-search sites.
How to avoid hurricane charity scams when donating
Being generous is commendable, but it’s essential to take a moment to verify any new requests for donations. Here are some steps to help you navigate this complex landscape:
1) Verify the charity independently
Utilize resources like Charity Navigator or the BBB Wise Giving Alliance before contributing. Avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages and instead visit the charity’s official webpage directly.
2) Be careful with payment methods
The FTC warns that scammers often recommend payment methods like cash, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Using a credit card or a check provides better protection and a clearer record of your transaction.
3) Slow down when someone pushes urgency
If someone pressures you to donate immediately, it’s wise to pause and verify the legitimacy of the organization first. Reputable charities will usually allow you time to do your due diligence.
4) Watch for copycat charity names and websites
Be cautious of organizations with names that sound similar to established charities. Before donating, double-check the spelling and ensure you’re on the official site.
5) Do not trust donation links in texts, emails, or social media posts
A seemingly genuine donation request might come from a compromised account or impersonate a real charity. Always visit the charity’s official website manually rather than clicking on provided links, and consider employing robust antivirus software to shield against potential scams.
6) Check your statement after you donate
After donating, it’s a good idea to review your credit card or bank statements. Confirm that you were charged only the expected amount and that no unauthorized recurring donations were set up.
7) Report suspicious charity requests
If something doesn’t sit right, don’t hesitate to report it. You can file a complaint with the FTC or contact the FBI for further assistance.
8) Reduce the personal data scammers can use
While verifying charity requests is crucial, consider that your personal information is likely accessible through data brokers. By removing excess information, you can complicate scammers’ efforts to make their pitches convincing.
Using a data removal service can alleviate this burden, as these services can contact brokers on your behalf to minimize the information available about you. However, you can also initiate removal requests yourself, though that may take more time.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Ultimately, hurricane charity scams are fueled by the desperation created during disasters, combined with the belief that personal data makes them more credible. The Epsilon case exemplifies how targeted lists can empower fraud, while individual cases remind us that fake charities often exploit those seeking to help. FEMA and the FTC continue to emphasize the importance of caution during these times. Always verify the charity, take your time, and favor payment methods that offer you more security. By limiting how much personal data is accessible, you can also make it tougher for scammers to target you effectively. While you can’t prevent hurricane season, you can certainly become a less attractive target.
