Mercer County Sheriff Kemler issued a release sharing the United States Attorney’s Office critical warning about scams stemming from the catastrophic flooding in Central Texas.
“Scammers are known to execute a variety of deceitful schemes, preying on individuals in affected areas,” stated the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas. “These tactics can manifest in multiple forms—through phone calls, text messages, unsolicited emails, traditional mail, and even door-to-door solicitations targeting storm-impacted residents,” noted the US Attorney’s Office.
Sheriff Kemler emphasizes that for area residents, awareness of scams is essential to ensure that their donations reach those in genuine need, even if they are 1,800 miles away. He stated, “It’s disgraceful that during natural disasters and mass casualties, when communities are at their most vulnerable, fraudsters exploit the generosity of those who wish to help.”
Consumer advocates and legitimate charities are urging charity-minded individuals to be cautious. Be vigilant against those who employ high-pressure tactics, provide vague descriptions of their missions, or demand untraceable forms of payment. Always take the necessary steps to verify a charity’s legitimacy before making your donation. Awareness can make a crucial difference in ensuring your donation reaches those who truly need it.
If you think you may have been preyed upon, submit a report to the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud at 866-720-5721 or www.justice.gov/disastercomplaintform.
You can also learn how you can donate safely and avoid scams at the Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Advice webpage.
