Check out our complete hurricane relief guide
Disaster relief scams often occur during and after hurricanes, exploiting donors’ generosity and victims’ vulnerability.
In the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Americans donated more than $4 billion to relief efforts—yet the FBI opened more than 4,000 fraud investigations as scammers capitalized on the nation’s generosity.
Today, these predators continue refining their tactics, creating heart-wrenching fake stories and sophisticated fake charities within hours of disaster striking, leaving vulnerable victims twice devastated: first by nature’s fury, then by human cruelty
As you read, you’ll learn how to recognize and avoid these scams, ensuring your donations reach those in genuine need.
Common scams to watch out for when donating to hurricane relief efforts
Scammers often exploit hurricane relief efforts through fake charities and phishing schemes. Before you donate, learn how to spot scam tactics and protect your donations.
Fake charity scams
Within hours of a hurricane making landfall, “Hurricane Relief Fund” pages flood social media, filled with heartbreaking images and urgent pleas. Many donors had no idea they were falling for sophisticated scams
These fraudulent organizations often lack proper charity registration, use vague mission statements like ‘helping victims,’ and pressure you to donate immediately.
In contrast, legitimate charities verify their credentials, clearly explain how donations aid specific communities, and never rush you into giving. Before donating, research charities through trusted sources to ensure your generosity truly helps those in need. Doing so ensures you know
Phishing scams and FEMA scams
As hurricane survivors begin rebuilding, their phones flood with “urgent” messages. Some messages might be from fraudulent organizations claiming to be FEMA. Phishing fraudsters pose as disaster officials through emails, texts, and calls, using official logos and storm details to steal Social Security numbers, banking info, or FEMA registration data.
Meanwhile, fake “FEMA inspectors” arrive in unmarked vehicles, offering fast-tracked aid for upfront fees or bogus “special grants.” They lack proper ID, demand payment for free services, and pressure survivors to sign forms immediately, tactics real FEMA reps never use.
Fake disaster recovery payments
In this type of scam, victims are asked to “verify eligibility” by providing Social Security numbers, insurance details, or banking info for deposits that never arrive. Some scams go further, setting up fake “relief centers” with intake forms and same-day payment promises—just to steal personal data.
Always verify aid through official .gov websites or agency phone numbers, never those in unsolicited messages. Review how our money transfer services work.
Tips to avoid disaster relief scams and fraud
In times of disaster, scammers will take advantage on goodwill, making it crucial to stay vigilant. There are many scams to watch out for, so stay cautious, verify sources, and ensure that communications are legitimate to protect your donations and personal information. Always verify charities, watch for fraud tactics, and report suspicious activity immediately. Protect your financial accounts by acting quickly if you suspect fraud to ensure your support reaches those who truly need it.
1. Verify charities before donating
Before donating to hurricane relief victims, always verify a charity’s legitimacy. Check official watchdog sites like Charity Navigator, GuideStar, or the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search to confirm its nonprofit status.
Look for clear mission statements, transparent financials, and direct contact information. Avoid donating through unsolicited messages, vague crowdfunding pages, or organizations that pressure you to give immediately. When in doubt, visit the charity’s official .org or .gov website instead of clicking on links from emails or social media.
2. Be aware of fraud tactics
To avoid FEMA scams and fake disaster relief offers, always verify information directly through FEMA.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.
FEMA will never ask for fees, personal banking details, or Social Security numbers via text, email, or phone. Beware of imposters posing as FEMA inspectors—real representatives carry official photo IDs and never demand payment.
3. Report fraud immediately
Report suspicious activity to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or local authorities. By sharing details of scams, you help protect others from fraud. Always report potential fraud as soon as you discover it.
4. Protect your financial accounts
Stay proactive by using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication for extra security. A password manager can help you safely store and manage login details. Avoid sending money through unsecured methods like gift cards or wire transfers. Regularly monitor your accounts for suspicious activity and report fraud immediately.
Here are some practices and tips to avoid disaster relief scams and fraud:
- Use strong and unique passwords: Always use strong, unique passwords for your accounts, especially those related to donations or financial transactions. Avoid using the same password for multiple sites to reduce the risk of hacking.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts, ensuring that even if your password is compromised, your information remains protected.
- Be cautious with money transfers: Never send money or share your banking details through unsolicited messages, especially from unknown sources. Scammers often use urgency to pressure you into making quick decisions.
- Use a password manager: A password manager can help store and generate strong, unique passwords for every account, reducing the chances of using weak or repeated passwords that can be easily cracked.
How trusted platforms like Western Union prevent fraud
Securing money transfers for disaster relief ensures your donations reach the right people, not scammers. Fraudsters often create fake relief funds, stealing donations meant for victims. By securing your transfers, you protect your financial info, maximize the impact of your donation, and help ensure that relief efforts are effective and trustworthy.
Reliable money transfers for disaster relief
When sending money to family or friends, trust is key. Western Union offers various methods for sending funds like personal checks, money orders, wire transfers, prepaid debit cards, and mobile wallets. With many different methods for sending money reliably, you can find the method that works best for your situation.
Personal and cashier’s checks provide traceability, while money orders guarantee funds without a bank account. Wire transfers are known as one of the most reliable methods for money transfers but come with fees and irreversible transactions. Prepaid debit cards and mobile wallets add flexibility but require extra caution.
To avoid fraud, always verify recipient details, use reliable mailing methods, and choose trusted financial services like Western Union for reliable transactions.
Educating users to spot scams
Western Union offers valuable resources and tips to help you identify disaster relief scams. These include a checklist of red flags like missing charity registration, vague mission statements, and pushy donation tactics.
Stay vigilant to protect your finances and make a real impact
After Hurricane Maria in 2017, scammers exploited goodwill through fake charities via door-to-door visits, calls, and social media. Experts advised verifying organizations, avoiding cash donations, and using resources like Guidestar and Charity Navigator to ensure legitimacy. Donors were warned against similar-sounding charities and sharing personal information.
By staying vigilant, verifying charities, and using reliable transfers, you ensure your donations truly help those in need. Smart giving strengthens relief efforts, protects your finances, and maximizes your impact. Stay informed, give wisely, and make a real difference.
FAQs
Follow these steps to verify if a charity is legitimate:
· Check accreditation: Use trusted platforms like Charity Navigator, GuideStar, or BBB Wise Giving Alliance.
· Research: Look for official websites, read reviews, and check for physical addresses and phone numbers.
· Avoid high-pressure tactics: Legitimate charities don’t rush you or use threats.
· Review financials: Ensure a significant portion of donations goes to disaster relief, not administrative costs.
Phishing scams often involve fraudulent emails, texts, or phone calls that ask for donations or personal information. Here’s what you can do to avoid them:
· Avoid suspicious links: Don’t open links in unsolicited emails or texts. Visit the charity’s official website directly.
· Verify contact details: Contact the organization using official phone numbers or email addresses, not those in unsolicited messages.
· Be cautious of urgency: Scammers create a sense of urgency. Verify unexpected donation requests before acting.
No, FEMA and other government agencies never charge fees for disaster assistance. If someone asks for money in exchange for aid, it’s likely a scam. Official government assistance is always free, and FEMA contacts disaster victims only through official channels.
Here are a few common signs of a FEMA scam:
· Requests for money: FEMA will never ask for payment or personal financial information via email, phone, or text.
· Unsolicited contact: If someone claiming to be from FEMA asks for money or sensitive info, it’s likely a scam.
· Fake websites: Scammers create fake FEMA websites. Always check the URL for fema.gov.
· High-pressure tactics: Scammers may rush you. Legitimate organizations allow time for informed decisions.
Here’s what to do if you think you’ve fallen for a scam:
· Report it to FEMA: You can report FEMA-related fraud by calling their Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or visiting FEMA’s fraud reporting page.
· Report it to the FTC: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) accepts complaints about charity fraud and scams. Visit ReportFraud.ftc.gov to file a report.
· Contact your bank or credit card company: If you’ve shared sensitive financial information, contact your bank immediately to protect your account.
The safest way to donate to hurricane relief efforts is through well-established organizations. Trusted organizations like the American Red Cross, FEMA, or Direct Relief are reliable sources for disaster relief.
When making donations, use reliable payment methods. Donate via credit card or check rather than cash or gift cards, as these are traceable and reliable.
Be sure to avoid third-party solicitation. If someone contacts you asking for donations, verify the charity first through official channels or trusted platforms.
Verify your donation is being used properly by:
· Checking charity ratings: Use platforms like Charity Navigator or GuideStar to review a charity’s performance, efficiency, and transparency.
· Requesting information on spending: Ask the charity how donations are allocated and what percentage goes directly to hurricane relief programs versus administrative costs
· Tracking your donation: Some charities allow you to track your donation and provide updates on how funds are being used.
Yes, scammers may pose as individuals seeking help after a disaster. They may contact you through social media, email, or phone calls, claiming to need financial assistance for personal recovery efforts. Be cautious when approached by strangers asking for money or help directly and verify their claims through trusted sources.
Scammers often use social media to spread fake donation links or fundraising pages. To avoid these scams:
· Check legitimacy: Look for verified accounts or official social media presence from trusted relief organizations.
· Research: Verify the campaign or organization through independent sources.
· Beware of emotional appeals: Scammers use emotional stories to manipulate. Take time to research before donating.
