Warning: Scammers and Price Gouging During the Fires – Stay Alert!
In times of crisis, scammers and unethical businesses often exploit those in need. Here’s how they might try to deceive you and what to watch out for, including price gouging.
Common Fire-Related Scams
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Fake Donation Requests
- Scammers pose as representatives of charities or relief organizations, asking for donations via cash, gift cards, or wire transfers.
How to Stay Safe:
- Donate only to verified organizations (e.g., Red Cross, local government relief funds).
- Check the charity's legitimacy on sites like CharityNavigator.org.
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Phony Insurance Adjusters
- Fraudsters claim to represent your insurance company and demand upfront fees to expedite claims.
How to Stay Safe:
- Contact your insurance provider directly to verify adjuster details.
- Never pay upfront for claim processing.
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Contractor Scams
- Unlicensed contractors offer to repair fire damage or clean up debris, then disappear after being paid.
How to Stay Safe:
- Verify contractors are licensed and insured.
- Avoid paying the full amount upfront; opt for staged payments.
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Fake Rental Listings
- Scammers post non-existent rental properties for displaced families, requiring deposits before viewing the property.
How to Stay Safe:
- Inspect properties in person before making any payment.
- Use reputable rental platforms.
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"Official" Government Assistance Offers
- Scammers pose as government officials offering fake relief funds in exchange for personal information or fees.
How to Stay Safe:
- Government assistance programs never charge fees. Verify with official websites or hotlines.
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Phishing Emails and Texts
- Emails or messages with fake updates, links, or attachments that steal your information.
How to Stay Safe:
- Avoid clicking on links from unknown senders.
- Verify messages by contacting organizations directly.
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Fake Pet Rescue Services
- Scammers claim to have found your missing pet and demand payment for their "safe return."
How to Stay Safe:
- Ask for proof (photos, details).
- Involve local animal shelters or authorities to confirm claims.
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Social Media Marketplace Scams
- Scammers sell fake "essential supplies" or relief items but never deliver.
How to Stay Safe:
- Purchase only from trusted sellers.
- Use secure payment methods like credit cards.
- Price Gouging – Know Your Rights
- Price gouging occurs when businesses increase prices excessively on essential goods and services during emergencies. This includes items like food, water, gasoline, lodging, and repair services.
- How to Spot Price Gouging:
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- Drastic price increases on necessities compared to regular pricing.
- Excessive fees for emergency services like towing, boarding, or repairs.
- What to Do If You See Price Gouging:
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- Document the evidence: Take photos of the prices and receipts.
- Report it to your local attorney general’s office or consumer protection agency.
- California Residents: Call the Consumer Protection Hotline at (800) 952-5225 or visit oag.ca.gov/report.
- Important: Price gouging during declared emergencies is illegal in many states, including California, and violators can face severe penalties.
Tips to Protect Yourself
- Verify Before You Trust: Always check the legitimacy of charities, contractors, and services.
- Avoid Giving Personal Information: Be cautious with your Social Security Number, bank details, or home address.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Notify local authorities, the FTC, or your state’s attorney general.
- Use Trusted Sources: For verified assistance, contact local relief organizations or government agencies.
- If You Suspect a Scam or Price Gouging
- Report scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Report price gouging to your state’s consumer protection agency or attorney general’s office.
- Stay informed and vigilant to protect yourself and your community during these challenging times.
