Avoid Home Repair and Charity Scams After a Natural Disaster
As Middle Tennessee recovers from severe storms and tornadoes, scammers are already hard at work. They prey on storm victims and exploit caring neighbors eager to help those in need.
The AARP Fraud Watch Network offers some important tips, including specific Do's and Don'ts to help you avoid being scammed after a natural disaster.
Residents are working hard to clean up and put their lives back together are attractive targets for home repair scams. The aftermath of a natural disaster is prime time for scammers.
- The con artist will try to pressure you into making a decision quickly.
- He or she will likely ask you to pay for the work upfront.
- Ask a contractor for three references – and check them.
See more tips and Download the Home Repair Scam Tip Sheet >>
Fake charities pop up quickly in the aftermath of a natural disaster or weather emergency. Scammers jump at the opportunity to exploit our sense of wanting to help.
- Check out charities at www.give.org or www.charitynavigator.org before giving any money.
- Ask for identification and details about the charity, including its full name and address, and how they will use the funds.
- The name of the fake charity may closely resemble the name of a real charity. Requests for you to wire money or give cash are red flags.
See more tips and Download the Fake Charity Scam Tip Sheet >>
