Protecting Yourself from Post-Disaster Scams

In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon speaks with Kathy Stokes, Director of Fraud Prevention Programs at AARP, about the increasing risk of scams following disasters. They discuss why fraud spikes after major events, how scammers exploit disaster victims, and what you can do to stay safe. Kathy shares insights from her work at AARP’s Fraud Watch Network, covering everything from FEMA impersonation scams to fraudulent contractors, price gouging, fake charities, and rental fraud. She also provides key tips on how to spot, avoid, and report disaster-related scams, as well as resources from AARP to help victims. If you want to protect yourself and your loved ones from post-disaster fraud, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

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Additional Resources:

• AARP Fraud Watch Network: www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork
• How to Avoid Disaster Relief Scams: https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2019/disaster.html
• Report Fraud to AARP’s Helpline: Call 877-908-3360 (8 AM – 8 PM ET, Monday – Friday)
• FEMA Scam Reporting: www.fema.gov

Presented by AARP California

www.AARP.org/CA