The Tampa Bay area did not fully escape Hurricane Helene unscathed, but avoided the brunt of the storm. For those that are recovering and anyone that wishes to help, we encourage caution. Cyber-criminals follow the news and use it to their advantage. They are quick to exploit the chaos and vulnerability that often follows national disasters. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recently issued warnings about an uptick in scams targeting individuals and businesses affected by the storm. Here’s how to avoid falling victim to these hurricane scams and protect yourself from hackers during this critical time.
Increased Phishing Scams
One of the most common tactics used by cybercriminals is phishing emails, texts, or social media messages. These fraudulent communications may pose as government agencies, insurance companies, or charitable organizations offering disaster relief. Always double-check the sender’s email address or phone number and never click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources. If an organization claims to be offering aid, verify their legitimacy through official channels.
Charity Fraud
After a disaster like Hurricane Helene, many people are eager to help those in need. Unfortunately, scammers take advantage of this goodwill by setting up fake charities. Before donating, ensure the charity is legitimate by checking them out on trusted sites like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau. Avoid giving money through unfamiliar websites or peer-to-peer payment apps (like Zelle or Venmo) without verifying the recipient.
Fraudulent Contractors
Post-hurricane, property damage is a top concern for many. Fraudulent contractors may reach out offering repairs at “too-good-to-be-true” prices. Always research contractors, ask for references, and verify their credentials before signing any contracts or making payments. Scammers often pressure you to pay upfront, so be wary of anyone who demands full payment before work begins.
Protect Your Personal Information
In the aftermath of a hurricane, hackers may attempt to steal personal information through social engineering attacks. Be cautious when sharing personal details over the phone or online, especially if you didn’t initiate the contact. Official organizations will not ask for sensitive information like Social Security numbers or banking details through unsecured communication channels.
By staying vigilant and verifying information through trusted sources, you can protect yourself from hackers and scams in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Disasters bring out the best in people, but they can also bring out opportunistic criminals. Stay safe, both physically and digitally, during your recovery efforts. For more scam avoidance tips, Hillsborough County offered this update on 9/27/24 which is relevant to our entire area.