Southern District of Georgia U.S. Attorney Jill E. Steinberg has issued a warning to residents regarding the potential for disaster-related fraud following Hurricane Helene's impact. In a statement, Steinberg highlighted the tendency of scammers to exploit those affected by natural disasters, emphasizing the importance of vigilance.
“Like moths to a flame, scam artists and profit-chasing individuals too often prey on vulnerable victims of natural disasters, such as those devastated by Hurricane Helene,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “Vigilance is the first defense against fraudsters who would compound the misery of a natural disaster by stealing from those in desperate need of assistance in recovery, and our office stands ready to assist in holding accountable individuals who would take advantage of disaster victims.”
In response to the hurricane, President Joe Biden has approved a major disaster declaration for Georgia. This declaration facilitates federal aid to support state and local recovery efforts across affected areas, including 30 out of 43 counties within the Southern District.
The National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF), created post-Hurricane Katrina in 2005, plays a crucial role in combating disaster fraud. It partners with the U.S. Department of Justice along with law enforcement and regulatory agencies to address fraud detection, prevention, investigation, prosecution, and victim advocacy.
Common fraudulent activities reported include fake charities soliciting donations under false pretenses or using well-known charity names; scammers posing as government officials requesting personal information or money for relief services; imposters pretending to be insurance representatives seeking payments or information; fraudsters offering quick home repairs requiring upfront payments; and price-gouging for essential goods and services.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, residents are advised to:
- Verify charities through trusted sources before donating.
- Avoid responding to unsolicited donation requests via email, phone, or text.
- Use credit cards or checks for donations instead of cash or wire transfers.
- Be cautious about contractors making unsolicited offers.
- Seek recommendations from reliable sources.
Reports of disaster-related fraud can be made by contacting the NCDF at (866) 720-5721 or visiting www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm.