Weather Disaster Scams Targeting Consumers After Storms

When disaster strikes—whether it’s a tornado, hurricane, flood, or wildfire—scammers are never far behind. They take advantage of people during times of crisis, often preying on fear, urgency, and desperation.

Here’s what you need to know about the latest disaster-related scams, how to protect yourself, and where to get real help if you’ve been affected.

Common Weather Disaster Scams

• Fake FEMA or Disaster Relief Agents
  Scammers may pose as officials from FEMA, the Red Cross, or other aid agencies, asking for personal information or payment to “process” your assistance.

Red flag: Real disaster relief agents will never ask for money or sensitive data upfront.

• Fraudulent Contractors Offering Repairs
  Posing as contractors, scammers offer quick or cheap home repairs, demand large deposits, and either do shoddy work or disappear entirely.

Red flag: No license, no verifiable references, high-pressure tactics, and cash-only demands.

• Fake Donation Requests
  Fake charities or GoFundMe-style campaigns pop up online, collecting money in the name of victims that never see a dime.

Red flag: Vague mission statements, no contact info, or urgent emotional appeals with no proof of legitimacy.

• Utility Disconnection Scams
  Scammers pretend to be from utility companies and claim your power, water, or gas will be shut off unless you pay immediately.

Red flag: Threats demanding immediate payment via gift card, Venmo, Zelle, or wire transfer.

How to Protect Yourself Against Weather Disaster Scams

• Verify identities: Ask for official ID and contact the organization directly using contact info from their official website.
• Get multiple quotes: Never accept a contractor deal on the spot. Research their license, insurance, and customer reviews.
• Donate through trusted sources: Use sites like Charity Navigator or Give.org to check legitimacy.
• Protect your data: Never give out your Social Security number, banking info, or insurance details unless it’s a verified organization.
• Report scams: Contact the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or your state attorney general.

If you believe you’ve been targeted or scammed:

• Contact us immediately at 512-398-3416 so we can help protect your accounts.
• If you used a credit card or debit card, contact the number on the back of the card immediately.
• Report the scam to your local police and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov.
• Keep all contracts, receipts, and communications as documentation.

A Final Reminder

Scammers thrive in chaos—but you don’t have to be a victim. Stay vigilant, take time to verify, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Recovery is hard enough without being taken advantage of.

Where to Get Real Help After a Disaster

If you or someone you know has been impacted by a weather disaster, here are legitimate resources for financial, housing, food, and legal assistance:

• Federal Assistance
  • FEMA Disaster Assistance
    Website: https://www.disasterassistance.gov
    Phone: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)
    Offers: Temporary housing, personal property loss help, medical expense coverage, and more.
• American Red Cross

Website: https://www.redcross.org
Provides shelter, food, emergency supplies, and emotional support. You can also locate shelters nearby through their website.

• State and Local Agencies

Check your state’s Emergency Management Agency (EMA) for localized relief programs. Some offer debris removal, rent assistance, and small business aid.

• United Way (211 Service)

Website: https://www.211.org
Call 2-1-1 or visit the site to connect with food, shelter, medical care, and mental health services in your area.

• Disaster Legal Aid

Website: https://www.disasterlegalaid.org
Free legal help for disaster survivors dealing with insurance claims, landlord issues, or benefits access.