Scam Alert: North Carolina Residents Beware Post-Hurricane Helene

News Summary

As reports of scams arise in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, North Carolina residents are urged to stay vigilant. The Attorney General visited local areas to discuss community concerns regarding contractor fraud and looting. Scammers posing as FEMA contractors and fake charities have emerged, preying on vulnerable individuals during recovery efforts. Residents are advised to report scams and use trusted sources for aid and contractor vetting.

Scam Alert: North Carolina Residents Beware Post-Hurricane Helene

Asheville, North Carolina – Residents in Western North Carolina are being urged to stay vigilant as reports of scams surface in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The state’s Attorney General has stepped in to provide a friendly nudge, reminding everyone about the potential pitfalls during recovery efforts following such a significant storm. The message is clear: watch your wallets and stay informed.

Community Concerns Take Center Stage

Recently, the Attorney General paid a visit to the lovely Biltmore Village area, looking to connect with local residents and business leaders about the challenges they’re facing. There’s a strong sense of community in Asheville, and this visit served to strengthen that bond. Folks were reassured that support is available, and that they are not alone in their recovery journey.

During the visit, concerns about looting and contractor fraud were at the forefront. Many homeowners, still grappling with the devastation from the hurricane, may find themselves feeling a bit vulnerable. It’s understandable, given everything that’s transpired, and the Attorney General acknowledged the frustrations faced by residents. He assured them that the office would be closely monitoring the rebuilding process to help ensure the community remains safe.

Spotting Potential Scams

Some of the scams that have emerged are particularly sneaky. One alarming trend is that of unfair contracting practices. Homeowners have shared experiences of receiving excessive quotes for services that should be reasonably priced. The Attorney General pointed out that if a contractor asks to be paid in unconventional methods like bitcoin, that’s a big red flag you shouldn’t ignore.

In troubling tales of misfortune, one local resident, Rod Ashby, fell victim to a scam while trying to replace his vehicle, which was lost to the hurricane. He wired a large sum of money for a truck he found online, only to discover too late that the website mimicked a legitimate car dealership, leading to his money disappearing into thin air. This unfortunate incident has sparked numerous inquiries directed towards the real dealership, highlighting the chaos ensued by scammers capitalizing on disaster-stricken individuals.

FEMA and Charity Scams are on the Rise

Scammers aren’t stopping there. Another reported scam involved a man posing as a “FEMA-authorized” contractor for tree removal, preying on unsuspecting homeowners who desperately need help. The true price for recovery can be steep enough without scam artists adding unnecessary burdens.

Residents are also encouraged to be cautious about where they donate funds to aid disaster victims. After times like a hurricane, the emotional toll adds to the vulnerabilities, making it crucial to verify donations carefully. Counterfeit charities have been known to pop up, stealing funds meant for those already affected by tragedy. It’s a shameful tactic that preys on people’s goodwill.

Protecting Yourself: What You Can Do

As the recovery efforts continue, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is advising residents to do their homework before hiring contractors or contributing to charities. It’s all about using trusted resources. Websites like the North Carolina Disaster Recovery Fund or verified GoFundMe campaigns can be excellent places to start when looking for worthy causes to support.

Residents concerned about potential scams can easily report them to a hotline set up specifically for this issue at 1.877.5.NO.SCAM. It’s as simple as that! Community information is vital, and being aware can save others from falling into the same trap.

So, as Western North Carolina continues to rebuild from the effects of Hurricane Helene, remember to keep your eyes peeled for scams. With a little bit of caution and a dash of community spirit, you can help make the recovery process smoother for everyone. Stay alert, look out for one another, and let’s support our beloved Western North Carolina together.

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Additional Resources

• ABC7 News: Hurricane Helene Scam Victim
• WBRC: BBB Warning About Hurricane Helene Damage Scams
• New York Post: Scammers Target Hurricane Helene Victims
• Detroit Free Press: Hurricane Milton Disaster Scam Fraud
• CBS 17: How to Avoid Donation Scams During Hurricane Helene
• Wikipedia: Hurricane Helene (2018)