Watch out for Disaster Fraud
From the California Association of Realtors:
Tip of the Week: Justice Dept. raises awareness of disaster fraud hotline
The Dept. of Justice, the FBI, and the National Center for Disaster Fraud remind the public there is a potential for disaster fraud in the aftermath of a natural disaster. Suspected fraudulent activity pertaining to relief efforts associated with natural disasters should be reported to the toll-free NCDF hotline at (866) 720-5721. The hotline is staffed by a live operator 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for the purpose of reporting suspected scams perpetrated by criminals in the aftermath of disasters.
In the wake of natural disasters, many individuals feel moved to contribute to victim assistance programs and organizations across the country. The Dept. of Justice and the FBI remind the public to apply a critical eye and to conduct due diligence before giving to anyone soliciting donations on behalf of victims.