Be alert to scams following severe weather events
Natural disasters like cyclones, floods, and storms can have a devastating impact on homes, infrastructure and the environment.
Unfortunately, during the chaos of severe weather events, scammers and disaster chasers may also take advantage of people who may be experiencing vulnerability during these times.
To help you stay vigilant, we explain some of the most common tactics used by scammers during and following a severe weather event.
Disaster chaser scams
After a natural disaster, scammers known as "disaster chasers" may approach homeowners offering repair services, water damage inspections or tree and branch removal for cash payment while claiming to be acting on behalf of an insurer.
The scammer may have no intention of completing the work or provide poor quality repairs.
Alarmingly, recent RACQ research found that 70% of Queenslanders are unaware of what constitutes disaster chaser activity, making it easier for scammers to exploit unsuspecting individuals.
To protect yourself from falling victim, follow these tips:
- Insurers will not send an inspector, tradesperson, or builder to your home without notifying you first and providing the contractors details.
- Always check in with your insurer before agreeing to any inspections, repairs or rebuilding work to make sure your insurer will cover it.
- If you sign a contract with a disaster chaser, you have a statutory 10-day cooling-off period.
- Your insurer can help you end the relationship with the disaster chaser.
If you encounter suspicious interactions, report them to the police and your insurer immediately.
Phishing scams
Scammers often pose as trusted organisations, targeting those affected by severe weather events. Here are some of the most common scams to be aware of:
- Fake government and utility scams: Scammers may pose as Centrelink, the ATO, insurers, or energy providers, offering rebates or financial relief. Always verify communications by contacting the official organisation directly.
- Charity fraud: If you wish to donate to disaster relief efforts, ensure the charity is legitimate by checking the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and donating through official websites only.
- Text or email scams: Avoid clicking on suspicious links in texts, emails, or social media posts, as they may be designed to steal your personal and financial information.
Always remember to “Stop. Check. Protect” and if you encounter a potential scam report it to ScamWatch.gov.au to help protect others.
If you think you’ve been scammed, immediately contact your bank or financial institution.
By staying informed and vigilant, you can help protect yourself and your community from scams following severe weather events.
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RACQ Operations Pty Ltd (ABN 80 009 663 414 AR 000234978) and Members Travel Group Pty Ltd (ABN 45 144 538 803 AR 000432492) are acting as an Authorised Representative of the issuer of the insurance, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. (ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548). Any advice set out above is general in nature only, and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before purchasing any travel products, please consider the RACQ Travel Insurance Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and the Target Market Determinations (TMDs) that apply to these products. Whilst the PDS outlines the Terms and Conditions of these products, the TMDs outline the intended class of customers that comprise the target market for these travel products. This will allow you to consider which products best suit your objectives, financial situation and needs and consider the products appropriateness to your personal circumstances. TMDs also outline matters involving the distribution and the review of these products. The PDS, Supplementary PDS and TMDs for each travel product can be found here.