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White House and Federal Authorities Sound Alarm on Scams and Price Gouging Amid Recent Hurricanes and Extreme Weather

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 9, 2024
PRESS CONTACT: [email protected]

WHITE HOUSE AND FEDERAL AUTHORITIES SOUND ALARM ON SCAMS AND PRICE GOUGING AMID RECENT HURRICANES AND EXTREME WEATHER

DOJ, FTC, CFPB and more take price gougers to task for using natural disasters to make a profit on suffering Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the country contends with the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene and extreme weather events caused by impending landfall of Hurricane Milton, Building Back Together stands with the Biden-Harris Administration, the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to warn consumers about potential scams and price gouging that target vulnerable communities in the wake of recent natural disasters.

As President Biden and Vice President Harris continue life-saving preparations for Hurricane Milton and surging federal aid to states and communities impacted by Hurricane Helene, corrupt individuals may attempt to exploit those trying to evacuate or rebuild. Reports have surfaced of price gouging for essential services and products, such as bottled water, airline tickets, gas, hotel rooms and building materials needed to protect homes. As families and communities fight to stay safe and recover, nobody should have to worry about being taken advantage of while trying to evacuate the dangers of a natural disaster.

Blake Goodman, Communications Director at Building Back Together, stated: “Preparing for and recovering from a natural disaster is one of the hardest things a family can do — the last thing anyone needs is for greedy corporations and corrupt individuals unfairly jacking up the cost of bare necessities needed to evacuate or recover from a storm. At Building Back Together, we’re proud to stand alongside the Biden-Harris Administration as they take on those who would use these disasters to make a profit on the backs of those people just trying to survive.”

Common Scams to Watch for During Natural Disasters:

  • Price gouging for essential goods and services, such as gas, hotels, groceries and materials needed to board up homes.
  • Fraudulent charities soliciting donations for disaster relief, often imitating legitimate organizations.
  • Government impersonation scams offering fake disaster relief in exchange for personal information or money.
  • Fake contractors promoting non-existent businesses or services related to rebuilding or hurricane recovery.

Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. If you believe you are being targeted by fraudulent schemes or price gouging, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Tips to Avoid Scams:

  • Be wary of anyone requesting payment via wire transfer, gift cards, payment apps, cryptocurrency or cash.
  • Only FEMA or other legitimate agencies will offer disaster relief, and they will never ask for money upfront.
  • Always research contractors and request multiple estimates before committing to any repair work.
  • Never sign an insurance check over to someone else without careful consideration and a clear contract.

In addition to FTC resources for avoiding scams and preparing for natural disasters, the CFPB offers a comprehensive Disasters and Emergencies Toolkit for consumers to manage their finances during these challenging times. To file a complaint about a financial product or service, visit consumerfinance.gov/complaint.

While Building Back Together thanks the Biden-Harris Administration and federal agencies for their intentional collaboration and commitment to protecting consumers from illegal exploitation — ensuring those impacted by natural disasters receive the help they need without fear of scams or price gouging .

For the most up-to-date information, follow the FTC on social media or visit consumer.ftc.gov.

For the most up-to-date information on preparations for Hurricane Milton’s landfall, please visit FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/disaster/current/hurricane-milton.