If you live in Hendersonville, NC, and are elderly or know some elderly persons, then you or those persons may have been targeted by hurricane scams in Hendersonville, NC. These scams can be very convincing and sneaky, so it’s important to know how to identify them before falling prey.
What to Do After a Hurricane
The best way to prepare for a hurricane is by making sure you have a plan for what to do before, during, and after.
- Make sure you have an emergency kit ready at home.
- If you can’t go home immediately after the storm passes, find somewhere safe to stay with family or friends until it’s safe for you to return home.
- Keep pets indoors where possible during severe weather conditions and make sure they are wearing identification tags so that they won’t get lost.
What are Hurricane Scams?
Hurricane scams are a type of fraud that can target anyone. The scammers will use the destruction caused by hurricanes to take advantage of people who have been displaced from their homes or business by the storm.
Scammers may use the names of trusted companies in an attempt to trick you into buying something you don’t need and probably won’t get paid for anyway. They may also use personal information like your name, address, and phone number without your consent to make it seem like a legitimate transaction when it’s nothing more than a con job.
Hurricane Scams Target Seniors in Hendersonville, NC
Hurricane scams target seniors who often have fewer resources than younger people and are more vulnerable to fraud. It is therefore important to educate yourselves on the methods and tricks to avoid landing yourself in a situation where you are a victim of hurricane scams.
How to Avoid Hurricane Scams
- Don’t accept gifts from strangers. This is a general rule that applies to all scams, but it’s especially important for older adults who may be more susceptible to the con because of their age or living situation.
- Be wary of anyone who appears out of place and wants to come inside your home. If a person asks if he/she can come inside, don’t open the door unless you are 100% sure that they are legitimate.
- Don’t give out personal information over the phone or through email, even if it seems like an emergency.
- Take your time before handing over any money. Beware of strangers offering help with hurricane recovery efforts in Hendersonville, NC. There are many scams out there, so don’t let anyone pressure you into handing over any money right away!
- Be wary of contractors who are looking to take advantage of you. You should be careful of contractors who are not licensed or insured, or those that don’t have references.
Along with the advice provided above, moving into a reputable retirement community can aid in your preparation for and survival during hurricane season. After all, having your friends and neighbors by your side makes it easier to weather a storm.
Retirement communities often provide residents with services and tools that are intended to make dealing with emergencies easier. Additionally, team members are qualified to offer a high level of comfort and safety to residents and assist in guiding them through emergency situations.
What to Do If You Find any Scams
- Report suspicious scam activity to the police. If you have any information about a hurricane related scam, report it to the Hendersonville Police Department. The police will work with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and other law enforcement agencies to investigate suspected scams.
If you are a resident of Hendersonville, NC, and have received a phone call or email from someone claiming to be with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), please do not give them any personal information.
