When natural disasters strike, such as the devastating wildfires near Los Angeles, they often leave behind more than physical destruction. Scammers seize these moments of vulnerability to target both those in need of assistance and those eager to help.
Understanding how to protect your money and personal information during these challenging times is essential. Here’s what you need to know.
How to Stay Safe from Natural Disaster Scams
FEMA and Government Assistance Are Free
No government agency, including FEMA, will ever ask for payment in exchange for disaster relief. Be cautious of anyone requesting money to process a grant or provide assistance. For verified resources, visit FEMA.gov and use official channels to seek help.
Research Before Donating to Charities
Fraudulent charities often emerge after natural disasters to take advantage of generous individuals. Avoid responding to pleas on social media or unsolicited messages. Use trusted platforms like CharityNavigator.org to research organizations, verify their credibility, and find legitimate “where to give now” lists.
Avoid Pressure for Immediate Repairs
Scammers may offer quick repair solutions and pressure you into signing contracts on the spot. Before making any decisions:
- Contact your homeowners insurance company to understand your coverage.
- Get multiple quotes from licensed contractors.
- Insist on written agreements detailing the work and payment structure.
- Never pay the full amount upfront.
Be Cautious of Unsolicited Offers for Help
Scammers often impersonate government officials, insurance companies, or utility providers. Never share personal or financial information with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. Instead, reach out to the company or agency directly using verified contact information.
Don’t Pay for Mortgage Relief Services
If you’re struggling to make mortgage payments after a disaster, contact your lender directly to discuss hardship options. Avoid third-party services offering to negotiate on your behalf for a fee. You can also consult a HUD-approved housing counselor for free or low-cost assistance.
What to Do If You’re Targeted
If you or someone you know becomes a victim of disaster fraud, take these steps:
- Report the scam to local law enforcement.
- File a complaint with the National Center for Disaster Fraud.
- Review resources like “What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed” to protect yourself further.
Protect Your Vital Documents with Gentreo
Natural disasters can result in the loss of crucial documents, making it even more critical to secure them ahead of time. The Gentreo Digital Vault offers a safe and accessible solution for storing essential estate planning documents, including wills, powers of attorney, and insurance policies. You can also use tools like Dropbox and others as well.
By securely storing your documents in the Gentreo Digital Vault, you can access them quickly when needed, reducing stress during recovery efforts.
Visit www.gentreo.com to learn more about how we empower families to plan, protect, and provide peace of mind before, during, and after life’s unexpected challenges.
Stay Prepared and Informed
By staying vigilant and proactive, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from scams during natural disasters. Gentreo is here to help you secure your future and recover more effectively during these difficult times.
Don’t wait until it’s too late; start your estate planning journey with Gentreo today. By doing so, you’ll not only protect your loved ones but also gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your legacy is secure. Click HERE to join now. If you need help and have been affected or think you may be affected by the fires, please email us for a special discount code.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney or estate planning professional for personalized guidance.
