SCAM ALERT: Oregon warns of wildfire scams targeting donations and recovery efforts
OREGON (KTVZ) -- The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is warning residents to be cautious of fraudulent schemes following widespread damage from current wildfires. The agency highlighted potential scams targeting both charitable donations and essential recovery efforts like debris removal and home repairs across Oregon communities.
The warnings come as the Oregon Department of Emergency Management recognizes that while Oregonians often unite to support their neighbors during disasters, scammers may attempt to exploit this generosity. Fraudulent schemes can manifest through various channels, including phone calls, mail, email, text messages and even unsolicited in-person visits.
To protect themselves and their donations, residents should verify the authenticity of fundraising campaigns. Only donations to fundraisers created by known and trusted individuals or organizations are recommended, with clear details on how funds will be used. The Oregon Department of Justice Charitable Activities page provides a resource to verify charitable organizations.
Residents should also be cautious with personal information, never sharing sensitive details like Social Security numbers or financial data with unverified groups. Monitoring credit reports regularly for unfamiliar accounts and filing complaints at IdentityTheft.gov are advised for suspected identity theft. Suspected fraud can be reported to the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection Hotline at one-877-877-9392 or through OregonConsumer.gov.
To maintain a secure and trackable record, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management recommends avoiding cash donations and instead using checks or credit cards. Residents can also sign up for Department of Justice Scam Alerts via the Oregon Department of Justice Scam Alert Network.
As residents begin debris removal, structural assessments and home repairs, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management advises thorough research of contractors. Ensuring a contractor is licensed, bonded and insured is crucial, with the Oregon Construction Contractors Board serving as a resource for checking reviews and references. It is important to obtain multiple detailed, written estimates and to avoid contractors demanding large upfront payments or offering unusually low prices.
High-pressure sales tactics should be avoided, with residents taking time to review contracts and make informed decisions. Payments to contractors should never be made in cash; instead, checks or credit cards provide a paper trail and added security. Additionally, residents should beware of door-to-door solicitations offering "fire recovery" services and always verify credentials and legitimacy.
Public aid for disaster assistance is provided free of charge, with no costs to apply or participate in inspections. Legitimate government workers, including inspectors and officials, will always carry identification and will never request or accept money.
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management also reminds residents to trust their instincts; if something seems suspicious, they should contact law enforcement or their local emergency management office to confirm validity. Following trusted information sources, such as local media outlets and official state and county emergency management channels, is also recommended for accurate updates.
Financial gifts are identified as the most effective way to assist those affected by wildfires, enabling disaster response organizations to purchase exact necessities. For trusted organizations involved in wildfire response, individuals can dial 211 or visit 211info.org. Examples of such organizations include:
- Oregon Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster
- Oregon Community Foundation
- Wildland Firefighter Foundation
- United Way Pacific Northwest Disaster Recovery Fund
- American Red Cross Cascades Region
- Confederated Tribe of Warm Springs
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management stated that all trusted state partners and agencies remain committed to supporting wildfire survivors and preventing fraudulent activity that slows recovery.
