The Los Angeles Police Department has issued an urgent warning about scammers targeting victims of recent devastating wildfires in Southern California. As residents grapple with the aftermath of the Eaton and Palisades fires, which have collectively claimed 29 lives and destroyed over 16,000 structures, fraudsters are attempting to exploit their vulnerability.
"During times of crisis, unscrupulous individuals often take advantage of vulnerable people, their insurance companies, and governmental aid intended for victims," the LAPD stated in a recent advisory.
The police have identified three main types of scams currently circulating:
Contracting Scams With debris removal potentially taking up to 18 months through official channels, scammers are offering unrealistic timelines and demanding large upfront deposits. They often pressure victims by creating false urgency or making empty promises about insurance coverage.
Towing and Car Repair Fraud Some companies are offering "free" towing or repair services, only to later charge excessive fees to insurance companies. The LAPD advises residents to work directly with reputable dealers and consult their insurance providers first.
Fake Charitable Donations While legitimate fundraising campaigns have emerged on platforms like GoFundMe, fraudulent campaigns are also proliferating across social media. GoFundMe has created a verified hub for legitimate campaigns, but authorities recommend thoroughly researching any charity before donating.
In response to these threats, law enforcement agencies including the LAPD, FBI, and ATF have formed the Joint Regional Fire Crimes Task Force to investigate and prosecute fire-related crimes.
U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada emphasized the commitment to protecting victims: "We will not permit victims to be re-victimized. Our community has suffered tremendously, and we are here to support them."
The LAPD recommends that fire victims verify companies through official channels and immediately report suspicious activity to authorities.