Bad Actors Exploit Natural Disasters: The Threats of Hurricanes Helene and Milton

October 13, 2024
By Dan Lohrmann

Natural disasters, particularly hurricanes, create not only physical devastation but also a fertile ground for bad actors to exploit the chaos. As communities grapple with the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, a new wave of online threats emerges, characterized by misinformation and fraud. This article delves into the tactics employed by scammers during such crises and offers guidance on how to protect oneself and others from falling victim to these malicious schemes.

The Immediate Aftermath of Helene and Milton

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, North Carolina faced severe flooding that rendered many roads impassable. The state’s Department of Transportation issued a stark warning, advising residents to consider all roads in the western part of the state closed. As the cleanup began, the focus shifted from physical recovery to the digital landscape, where scammers were already preparing to take advantage of the situation.

As Hurricane Milton approached Florida, reports surfaced of scammers posing as legitimate charities, preying on the goodwill of those eager to help. According to CBS News, the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) issued a warning about fraudulent solicitations for funds, emphasizing that criminals often exploit disasters to steal money and personal information.

Recognizing the Red Flags

The NCDF’s advisory highlighted several red flags that individuals should be aware of when approached for donations or assistance. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Official Communication: Government disaster assistance agencies do not call or text asking for financial account information. If you receive such a request, it is likely a scam.

2. No Fees for Assistance: There is no fee required to apply for or receive disaster assistance from FEMA or the Small Business Administration. Be wary of anyone claiming otherwise.

3. Spoofing Techniques: Scammers often use spoofing techniques to disguise their identity, making it appear as though they are calling from a legitimate source. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and contact the agency directly using official contact information.

4. Door-to-Door Solicitation: Workers from legitimate agencies will carry official identification and will not ask for or accept money. Always verify their credentials.

5. Online Scams: Be cautious of donation requests made via social media or email. Scammers frequently create fake websites or social media profiles to solicit contributions.

The Role of Misinformation

In addition to financial scams, misinformation can spread rapidly in the aftermath of hurricanes. FEMA has acknowledged the confusion caused by rumors and false information, which can hinder recovery efforts. As federal agencies collaborate with local communities to restore services, it is crucial for individuals to discern fact from fiction.

Historically, misinformation has plagued disaster recovery efforts. For instance, during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, numerous scams emerged, tricking both victims and potential donors. As we witness similar patterns with Helene and Milton, it is essential to remain vigilant and verify information before acting on it.

Protecting Yourself and Others

To safeguard against scams and misinformation, consider the following strategies:

• Verify Charities: Before donating, research organizations using platforms like CharityNavigator.org or Give.org. Ensure that your contributions go to reputable causes.

• Be Skeptical of Urgency: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prompt quick action. Take your time to verify any requests for donations or assistance.

• Educate Others: Share information about potential scams with friends and family, especially those who may be more vulnerable to such tactics.

• Report Scams: If you encounter a scam, report it to the NCDF or your local authorities. This helps to raise awareness and protect others from falling victim.

A History of Exploitation

The exploitation of disaster situations is not a new phenomenon. Over the years, as communities rally to support hurricane victims, scammers have consistently sought to capitalize on the generosity of individuals. The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 saw the establishment of the NCDF, which serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against disaster-related fraud.

As we reflect on past events, it is clear that the intersection of natural disasters and cybercrime poses a significant challenge. The 2017 hurricane season, marked by unprecedented storms, also saw a surge in cyber threats, including phishing scams and fake news that undermined trust in legitimate organizations.

Final Thoughts

As we navigate the challenges posed by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, it is crucial to remain vigilant against the bad actors who seek to exploit the goodwill of others. In this election season, be particularly cautious of fake political messages related to hurricane recovery efforts. Always ask yourself: Is this information legitimate?

While it is essential to help those in need, it is equally important to ensure that your assistance reaches the right hands. By staying informed and cautious, we can collectively combat the threats posed by scammers and misinformation in the wake of natural disasters.

For more information on cybersecurity and disaster fraud, visit GovTech and stay updated on the latest developments.

Daniel J. Lohrmann is an internationally recognized cybersecurity leader, technologist, keynote speaker, and author.