Threats from hurricanes don’t come just from wind and rain, storm surges, flooding and rip currents, or tornadoes and landslides. Hurricane-related threats also come in the form of scammers who use those weather emergencies to cheat people.
Some of the most common weather-related frauds and scams include people who promise to help you with clean-up or repairs, but disappear with your money; those who pretend to be FEMA or other government agencies; people who promise you a job – if only you pay to get it; and those who promise you a place to rent – if only you wire them the money to get the place sight unseen.
The FTC’s site, Dealing with Weather Emergencies, has practical ideas to help you get ready for, deal with, and recover from a weather emergency. It also has advice on how to recognize, avoid, and report frauds and scams.
Like all the FTC’s materials, the site is mobile-friendly, giving you ready access to information when and where you need it. Check out the site’s four sections:
- Preparing for a Weather Emergency
- Staying Alert to Disaster-related Scams
- Getting Back on Your Feet Financially
- Resources
Help keep your community well-informed and safe. Share this customizable one-page handout, Picking Up the Pieces after a Disaster. Just add your local consumer protection and emergency service contacts, print however many copies you need, and distribute them throughout your community. And don’t forget to sign up for consumer alerts to get the latest information on frauds and scams.
Ready for hurricane season? 5 things to do now:
By Colleen Tressler
