When a State of Emergency is declared during a winter storm, scammers often take advantage of fear, urgency, and disrupted services. From fake contractors to fraudulent donation requests, storm-related scams can cost families thousands of dollars. Staying alert and informed is the best defense.
Watch for Contractor Scams
After heavy snow, ice, or wind damage, scammers may go door-to-door offering quick repairs for roofs, driveways, or fallen trees. They often demand large upfront payments or claim they have “extra materials” left over from another job.
Protect yourself by:
- Never paying the full amount upfront
- Asking for a written contract
- Verifying licenses and insurance
- Avoiding cash-only deals
- Checking reviews and local references
If someone pressures you to “act now,” that’s a red flag.
Be Cautious of Utility Impersonators
Scammers may pose as electric or gas company workers claiming your service will be shut off unless you make immediate payment. During a State of Emergency, utility companies do not demand instant payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
If you receive a suspicious call:
- Hang up
- Contact your utility company directly using the number on your bill
- Never give personal or banking information over the phone
FEMA and Government Aid Fraud
Following a storm emergency declaration, scammers may pretend to represent federal or state agencies offering disaster assistance. They may request Social Security numbers, banking details, or processing fees.
Remember:
- Government agencies do not charge fees to apply for assistance
- Verify assistance programs through official government websites
- Do not share personal information unless you initiated the contact
Fake Charity and Donation Scams
After major storms, fraudulent charities often appear online and on social media. They use emotional language and urgent appeals for help.
Before donating:
- Research the charity
- Donate through the organization’s official website
- Avoid clicking donation links in unsolicited emails or texts
Online Marketplace and Generator Scams
During winter storms, items like generators, snow blowers, and heating equipment become high demand. Scammers may list fake items online at attractive prices and request payment upfront.
Protect yourself by:
- Buying from reputable retailers
- Avoiding wire transfers or peer-to-peer payment apps for strangers
- Being cautious of prices that seem too good to be true
Protect Your Personal Information
Storm-related phishing emails and texts may claim to offer weather alerts, emergency updates, or insurance claims assistance. These messages often contain malicious links.
Tips:
- Do not click unknown links
- Verify the sender’s email address
- Use official news outlets and government sources for updates
Report Suspicious Activity
If you suspect a scam:
- Contact your local police department
- Report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- Notify your state Attorney General’s office
Scammers thrive during times of crisis, but awareness is powerful. By staying cautious and verifying information before making payments or sharing personal details, residents can protect themselves and their families during Winter Storm Hernando’s State of Emergency.