As a string of natural disasters in Southeast prompt online donations, officials are making sure your money goes where it’s needed.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — As communities in the Southeast grapple with the devastation left behind by Hurricane Helene, and now a second punch from Hurricane Milton, nonprofit organizations are warning consumers to watch out for disaster relief scams.
“People of Western New York are incredibly generous, especially when a disaster or tragedy strikes. However, you have to remember, unfortunately, there are some people who are going to try to take it, take advantage of that,” said Katarina Schmieder, Communications director at BBB of Upstate New York.
The Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York says to watch out for key red flags before you pull your wallet out.
“One tactic scammers love to use is, you know, any payment form that’s either untraceable or difficult to reverse, peer to peer payment apps are a good example. Gift cards are …