Columbia Residents Warned About Scams in Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

Columbia, S.C. Residents Alerted About Scams Following Hurricane Helene

Hey there, Columbia! As we all start to pick up the pieces after the recent impacts of Hurricane Helene, it’s essential to stay cautious about potential scams. The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA) has raised the alarm, urging residents to be on the lookout for scammers who may exploit the situation.

Scammers Are On the Prowl

It’s a tough time for many people in our community, and unfortunately, some individuals see this as an opportunity to take advantage of those who are already struggling. Scammers are known to reach out in various ways, whether it’s by phone, email, text, social media, or even in-person visits. These fraudsters often impersonate legitimate organizations and make false promises that can lead to financial loss.

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

One of the best ways to protect yourself during this time is to stay informed. The SCDCA recommends visiting their website for resources that can help you identify and avoid scams. They have a special document titled “Beware of Disaster Scams” that highlights common tactics used by scammers, as well as a “Recovering from a Disaster” guide that can assist you in legitimate recovery efforts.

Tips for Recognizing Scams

Here are some quick tips to help you recognize and avoid scams as you navigate recovery post-Helene:

• Don’t Share Personal Information: Never provide sensitive information, like Social Security numbers or bank details, over the phone or online unless you’re certain of the recipient’s identity.
• Be Wary of Unsolicited Offers: If someone reaches out to you unexpectedly claiming they can help you with disaster recovery, take a step back. Research them first or call a trusted organization to verify their claims.
• Verify Before You Trust: If you receive an email or text from a company you recognize, check their official website or contact them directly instead of clicking on any links.
• Confirm the Source: Scammers may create fake accounts on social media using the names of legitimate organizations. Before engaging with any post, double-check that it’s coming from a verified source.

Join the SCDCA Webinars

In addition to the valuable resources available online, the SCDCA is also hosting two free webinars aimed specifically at helping South Carolinians navigate recovery after the storm while staying scam-free. Participating in these sessions could provide you with even more tools and tips to manage the recovery process safely.

Community Support is Key

As Columbia comes together to help each other through the recovery process, let’s also keep our eyes open against those who would seek to exploit our vulnerability. Support from each of us can make a huge difference in everyone’s recovery journey. Whether it’s sharing information, reporting suspicious activity, or simply offering a helping hand, every effort counts.

Conclusion

In these challenging times, let’s remain vigilant and support one another in rebuilding our lives. Remember, if something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. Take care, Columbia, and let’s keep our community strong and safe!