Attorney General Raúl Torrez Warns Those Affected by Recent Natural Disasters of Potential Scams

The New Mexico Department of Justice and its Consumer Protection Bureau warns those recently affected by the Ruidoso floods of potential scams that often occur after natural disasters. These can include insurance scams, price gouging schemes, fraudulent charities and more.

Below are some tips for flood victims to avoid falling victim to a scam or price gouging scheme:

• If it sounds too good to be true – it probably is.
  • For example: if an insurance company that is not your insurance company reaches out making promises or requesting information, it is likely a scam.
• Do not wire money or confirm financial or personal information, including a bank account, credit card, or Social Security numbers.
• Do not trust a name or phone number. Scammers often use fake names and phone numbers to disguise their identity and area code.
• If there appears to be a significant increase in the cost of hotel, food, fuel, etc., that may be price gouging and it should be reported here: NMDOJ.gov/get-help/submit-a-complaint/

For those members of the community who may wish to help financially, below are some tips for making informed decisions when choosing/vetting a charity:

• Check to see if the organization is registered and in compliance, and continues to register yearly, with the NMDOJ by visiting NMDOJ.gov/Charities
• To find a charity: scroll to the links at the bottom and click “New Mexico Charity Search”
• Check to see where the majority of the organization’s funds are being allocated
• Examine the accessible tax documents for additional information, including whether or not the organization is a 501(c)(3) as donations to these specific organizations are tax-deductible
• Utilize additional research resources including websites such as GuideStar.org, FTC.gov and IRS.gov.

The NMDOJ has a designated webpage for Flood Recovery that offers information on natural disaster scam prevention and safe charitable donation tips, as well as a complaint submission portal for those who suspect fraudulent activity.

Natural Disaster Scam Prevention Information

The NMDOJ is actively reviewing potential cases and will work closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, local and tribal law enforcement, and community partners to ensure that fraudsters are brought to justice.

If you suspect fraudulent activity regarding scams, price gouging, etc., report it to our office. Submit an online complaint at NMDOJ.gov/get-help/submit-a-complaint/,or call 505-490-4060.

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