How do fraudsters exploit crises and natural disasters for scams?

Fraudsters exploit crises and natural disasters by capitalizing on people’s fear, generosity, and urgency to help those in need. They may create fake charities or relief organizations, impersonate legitimate organizations, or use phishing emails and messages to trick individuals into sharing personal information or making donations. To recognize these tactics, be cautious of unsolicited communication, verify the legitimacy of charities or organizations before donating, refrain from providing personal or financial information to unsolicited requests, and seek information from reputable sources such as official websites or established news outlets. Look out for inconsistencies in communications, pressure to act quickly or make immediate donations, and requests for payment in untraceable methods such as gift cards or wire transfers. If in doubt, contact the organization directly using contact information from their official website to ensure your donation reaches those in need and not into the hands of scammers.