As the people living in hurricane-prone areas prepare for the anticipated Hurricane Milton, US government organizations, the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), have issued warnings about the increased risks of fraud and price gouging during this crisis situation. These warnings aim to protect consumers and ensure their rights are upheld even during such challenging times.
Starting with the DOJ, the department’s vigilant measures have been triggered by a surge of fraudulent activity reported in the past during similar natural disasters. The department warns of predators ready to exploit the situation by establishing deceptive charity drives to defraud generous people wanting to provide aid to victims. Consumers are cautioned to double-check the legitimacy of charitable organizations, ensuring they are reputable and registered before making any donations.
The DOJ also warns of increased fraud relating to home repair and clean-up operations. Fraudsters have been known to pose as contractors, offering to repair damage caused by the hurricane. Facing pressure and the urgency to restore their properties, homeowners might fall prey to such scams, ending up with substandard work or no work done at all. Hence, it is advised to confirm the credentials of such agents before assigning any work contract.
Similarly, the FTC has expressed its concerns, primarily focusing on the practice of price gouging during crisis periods. Price gouging refers to the sudden and exorbitant increase in prices of essential items, capitalizing on high demand and limited supply. The items mostly impacted include food, water, gasoline, generators, and housing options.
The FTC warns consumers to be vigilant of unfair price hikes and encourages them to report such instances to their local state attorney general’s office. It is important to remember that laws against price gouging are activated once a state of emergency is proclaimed. The FTC further advises consumers to keep a record of the seller’s name, address, the product’s price, and any other relevant information, which can be useful while reporting an incident.
Both the organizations, DOJ and FTC, underline the importance of digital vigilance as well. In the age of the internet, fraud and price gouging do not only happen in physical stores but have permeated the online market too. The cybersecurity division of the DOJ warns against opening any suspicious emails or clicking on dubious links that can potentially lead to phishing scams.
In conclusion, with Hurricane Milton looming, it is essential that consumers remain alert and aware to navigate through the potential fraud and price gouging risks that can come their way. The DOJ and FTC are standing