When disaster strikes, communities come together to rebuild and support each other. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when bad actors take advantage of people’s vulnerabilities. Natural disasters bring chaos and loss, but they also bring out a very human response; empathy, generosity, and a desire to help. However, these human emotions are precisely what scammers and fraudsters exploit, turning moments of compassion into opportunities for their gain.
Human Vulnerability: A Target for Bad Actors
Being human means experiencing emotions, especially during times of crisis. The aftermath of a natural disaster is not just about the physical damage; it’s also an emotional roller coaster. People are seeking help, safety, and the comfort of the community. Bad actors know this, and they prey on these emotions, offering solutions that appear to be helpful, genuine, and quick.
My family experienced this firsthand after Hurricane Harvey hit South Texas. Amid the devastation, we thought we found a trustworthy, local company that claimed they, too, were impacted by the storm and wanted to help rebuild the community. They expressed empathy, spoke our language of loss, and showed up when we were at our most vulnerable. We trusted them with our entire insurance payout, believing we had hired someone who cared.
But it was all a lie. They overbought materials, covered our destroyed, moldy drywall with new drywall, and then disappeared, taking all the remaining materials with them. We were left worse off than before, not just financially, but emotionally. This experience was not just a scam; it was an exploitation of our hope and trust.
Not Just a Cyber Issue: Bad Actors Everywhere
While cybersecurity threats like phishing and ransomware are common, scams during natural disasters reveal that the playbook of bad actors extends beyond the digital realm. Whether it’s false contractors, fraudulent charity fundraisers, or fake aid organizations, these scams are rooted in exploiting the natural human response to crises. Scammers know that people are overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and seeking quick solutions, making them easy targets for manipulation.
At BLOKWORX, we extend our deepest condolences to anyone affected by the recent string of natural disasters. We understand the emotional and physical toll it takes, and it’s disheartening to know that scammers use these situations to their advantage. While we primarily focus on cybersecurity, the principles of protecting oneself from scams apply across the board. Awareness and vigilance are crucial in preventing further victimization during already difficult times.
Practical Tips to Avoid Post-Disaster Scams
Here are some practical tips to help protect yourself and your loved ones from scams following a natural disaster:
- Verify Before You Trust: Before hiring any contractor or service provider, do thorough research. Check their credentials, read reviews, and verify their legitimacy through local business bureaus or trusted community references.
- Be Wary of Unsolicited Offers: Scammers often approach individuals unsolicited, offering services or help. Be cautious of anyone who contacts you out of the blue, especially if they pressure you into making quick decisions.
- Avoid Upfront Payments: Legitimate contractors typically require a down payment, but they will not ask for the entire payment upfront. Be cautious if someone insists on full payment before beginning work.
- Document Everything: Take pictures of damages, keep records of all conversations, and document any agreements made with contractors. This documentation can help in the event of a dispute or insurance claim.
- Use Local and Trusted Resources: Whenever possible, use contractors or service providers recommended by trusted community members or verified by local authorities.
- Be Cautious of Charitable Donations: After a disaster, many people want to donate to help those affected. Only donate through reputable organizations and avoid sharing personal information with unknown parties.
- Stay Alert for Cyber Scams: Phishing emails, fake charity websites, and fraudulent social media posts often increase after a disaster. Be cautious of any communication asking for personal information, and always verify the source before responding.
Bad actors thrive on chaos and emotion, using the cover of disaster to carry out their schemes. While it’s natural to seek help and rebuild quickly, being vigilant can prevent scammers from turning a difficult situation into an even bigger tragedy. By staying informed, verifying sources, and taking proactive steps, you can protect yourself and your community from falling victim to these malicious actors.
Natural disasters are devastating, but we can defend ourselves from further harm by being cautious and aware. BLOKWORX is here to support you not just in digital security but in promoting awareness of scams in all their forms. Let’s work together to create a safer, more secure community, even more so in times of crisis.
Stay safe, stay vigilant, and remember—you’re not alone.
