(InvestigateTV) — AccuWeather is estimating the property damage and loss from the current California wildfires could top $250 billion. However, the true cost to victims may climb even higher as scammers exploit the tragedy to target those affected.
Melanie McGovern with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) said that scammers are already donning the guise of Hollywood stars and using fake celebrity endorsements to lure unsuspecting donors in Los Angeles.
“We have heard that some celebrity names are being faked on these websites where people are thinking, ‘okay this person is endorsing this, it must be legitimate,’” McGovern said. “But doing that extra checking can go a long way to save you money.”
Those planning to donate to a charity should start by asking critical questions about how the charity operates, where the donation will go, and how it will reach those in need.
“Do you have the ability to get to the affected area? What is the money being used for? Do you want donation of goods and services, or do you want cash? Asking a lot of questions is also a good way to vet a charity as well,” McGovern said.
For those directly affected, McGovern said to beware of “storm chasers.”
“Be wary of anybody coming to your door, demanding money, saying the repair has to be done right away,” she urged. “That sense of urgency is what consumers sometimes fall for. So, it’s really important to get that information from the person at the door, before you say yes to any kind of repair.
The BBB also has free tools to help donors find legitimate local and national charities.
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