SCAM WARNING ALERT: Scams Targeting Those Evacuating from Southern California/Los Angeles Wildfires and Their Families are Exploding

180,000 Evacuated in Southern California Who Are Now Being Targeted by Scams!

In the wake of mass evacuations affecting Southern California and Los Angeles Wildfire victims, scammers are exploiting the chaos and fear to launch fraudulent campaigns. These scams target vulnerable individuals, often posing as emergency services, insurance providers, or loved ones in distress.

COMMON SCAMS TO WATCH FOR

1. Grandparent & Emergency Scams

• How it works: Scammers call posing as a grandchild, family member, or friend, claiming to be in immediate danger or needing financial help due to the evacuation.
• Tactics used: Emotional manipulation and urgency to pressure you into sending money quickly via wire transfers, gift cards, or payment apps.
• What to do: Verify the caller’s identity by contacting your loved one directly or asking personal questions only they would know. Never send money or share financial details without verification.

2. Fire-Related Text Message Scams

• How it works: You may receive a text claiming to provide evacuation updates, emergency aid, or donations for fire victims. These messages often include malicious links.
• Tactics used: Official-sounding language and urgent prompts like “Click here for immediate evacuation info” or “Donate now to help victims.”
• What to do: Avoid clicking on links from unknown numbers. Get official updates from verified sources like local government websites or emergency alert systems.

3. Email Scams Offering Insurance-Related Services

• How it works: Fraudulent emails claim to offer expedited insurance claims, disaster relief funds, or property repair services.
• Tactics used: Fake forms, phishing links, or requests for sensitive information like Social Security numbers or bank details.
• What to do: Contact your insurance company directly through their verified phone number or website. Never provide personal information via email.

Tips To Stay Safe:

• Trust Only Verified Sources: Get information from official government and emergency services websites.
• Don’t Share Personal Information: Be cautious of anyone asking for sensitive details over the phone, via text, or email.
• Verify Before Acting: Call friends or family directly to confirm any claims of emergency assistance or distress.
• Report Suspicious Activity: Contact local authorities or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to report scams.

Share This Alert!

Help protect your community by spreading the word. Together, we can stop scammers from exploiting those affected by this disaster. Stay safe and informed!

How to Donate to California Los Angeles Wildfire Victims Safely

Courtesy of Money.com

Following the state of emergency declaration on Tuesday, California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued an alert, reminding residents of the state’s anti-price gouging rules during emergencies and warning donors to stay vigilant when trying to lend a helping hand.

“Your first level of defense is your own instincts,” Bonta said during a CBS Los Angeles interview on Wednesday. “If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.”

Bonta added that you should never answer random texts that are soliciting donations. He said you should only donate to organizations that you have confirmed that are legitimate, using tools such as ones provided by the California Attorney General and Secretary of State offices to help you verify the legitimacy of any aid organization operating in the state.

The large size of these government databases — which include roughly 150,000 nonprofits that are cleared to operate in the state — make them less than useful for selecting an organization, but they can be a valuable resource for verifying that one is in good standing

If you want to help but aren’t sure where to start, here are several reputable organizations providing wildfire relief.

American Red Cross

The American Red Cross, one of the nation’s most well-known nonprofit disaster-relief organizations, confirmed Wednesday that it’s sending teams “on the ground” to support victims of the ongoing wildfires in the region.

The organization says you can support its efforts by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or texting REDCROSS to 90999.

United Way of Greater Los Angeles

The greater Los Angeles branch of the nonprofit United Way has a dedicated Wildlife Response Fund to assist with long-term recovery efforts in the area such as providing shelter, assistance paying bills and health services.

The organization accepts donations online at unitedwayla.org.

California Fire Foundation

The nonprofit California Fire Foundation provides emotional and financial assistance to communities affected by fires, firefighters and families of fallen firefighters.

The organization says it is assisting with relief efforts amid the ongoing wildfires by “working with local fire agencies and community-based organizations to provide direct financial support to impacted residents.”

The California Fire Foundation is accepting wildfire relief donations through this online form.

California Community Foundation

The Los Angeles-based nonprofit California Community Foundation provides financial support to fund long-term recovery and assistance efforts. The organization says its Wildfire Recovery Fund provides aid to the most marginalized and vulnerable members of the affected communities.

Wildfire relief donations are accepted online via this page or by checks mailed to:

California Community Foundation
717 W Temple St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012.

Include “Wildfire Recovery Fund” in the memo.