Scammers target Hurricane Milton victims in Florida
- Scammers posing as FEMA officials are targeting Hurricane Milton victims in Sarasota County, Florida.
- These fraudsters request sensitive financial information, such as bank account details, under the pretense of providing assistance.
- Residents are advised to be cautious and report any suspicious individuals to local authorities.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton's landfall in Sarasota County, Florida, residents are facing threats from scammers impersonating FEMA officials. These individuals, reportedly with fake badges, are attempting to extract sensitive financial information from hurricane victims. The Sarasota County Emergency Management Chief, Sandra Tapfumaneyi, emphasized the importance of vigilance, instructing residents to refrain from sharing personal financial details with anyone who comes to their door claiming to be from FEMA. Instead, victims should use FEMA's official online system for any assistance. Tapfumaneyi highlighted the significant risks involved as scammers see natural disasters as an opportunity to exploit vulnerable individuals. She advised residents to report any suspicious behavior to local authorities. As Florida recovers from the devastation wrought by Hurricane Milton, which made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane, the community is encouraged to remain cautious and trust only verified channels for disaster assistance.