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Recognizing and Avoiding Fraud During Natural Disasters

Natural disasters bring out the best and worst in people. While communities come together to support one another, the chaos can also create opportunities for fraudsters. Being aware of common scams can help you protect yourself and your loved ones from scammers. 

Along with you, we are heartbroken by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina regions. The destruction from the unprecedented flooding will take months to clean up and years to rebuild, but our community is resilient and will come back stronger than ever. At ORNL FCU, we are actively doing our part to help the areas affected by the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Our team is set up at our Newport branch giving away free packages of bottled water to those in need. So far, we have distributed over 1,000 cases of bottled water equivalent to over 4,300 gallons.

In times of disasters, the generosity of our community is always evident; it’s why we’re the Volunteer state! However, disasters also tend to bring out bad actors looking to prey on victims in their time of weakness and despair. In addition to doing our part of providing relief and resources, we want to make sure our members and community don’t fall victim to fraudsters wanting to take advantage of people during unfortunate situations.

Natural disasters—be it hurricanes, wildfires, or floods—often leave victims vulnerable. Scammers exploit their vulnerability, using tactics that range from fake charities to deceptive repair services. It’s crucial to recognize these tactics to safeguard your resources and peace of mind.

Common Types of Scams

  1. Fake Charities
    • What to Watch For: After a disaster, many people feel compelled to donate. Scammers often create fake organizations or impersonate legitimate ones.
    • How to Avoid: Research charities before donating. Check their legitimacy on platforms like Charity Navigator or GuideStar. Look for transparency in how donations will be used.


  2. Home Repair Scams
    • What to Watch For: Scammers may offer quick repairs at low prices, often asking for upfront payment.
    • How to Avoid: Get multiple estimates from reputable contractors and avoid paying in full before work begins. Always check for licenses and insurance.


  3. Insurance Scams
    • What to Watch For: Fraudulent agents may pose as insurance representatives to gather personal information.
    • How to Avoid: Contact your insurance provider directly using official contact information. Never share sensitive information over the phone with unsolicited callers.


  4. Government Grant Scams
    • What to Watch For: Scammers may claim you are eligible for government aid and ask for personal information or payment to process the application.
    • How to Avoid: Be skeptical of unsolicited offers. Government grants do not require payment. Check out government official websites like FEMA, USA.gov, or Disaster Assistance for accurate information.


  5. Phishing Scams
    • What to Watch For: Scammers may use email or text messages pretending to be official agencies, requesting personal information.
    • How to Avoid: Look for signs of phishing, such as poor grammar or suspicious links. Verify any requests by contacting the organization directly.

Protecting Yourself

  • Stay Informed: Keep updated on local news and official announcements regarding scams.
  • Educate Others: Share information about common scams with family and friends, especially those who may be more vulnerable.
  • Use Official Channels: For donations or aid, always use official websites or well-known organizations.
Natural disasters can bring out the worst in some people, but awareness is your best defense against fraud. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself and your community. Remember, when in doubt, take a step back, verify the source, and trust your instincts. Together, we can fight back against fraud and help those in need more effectively.

If you feel empowered to help support these communities in need, you can do so here. 

Below are reputable organizations who are leading up supply donations and other ways that you can help people impacted by Hurricane Helene. 

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