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Today: February 19, 2025
Today: February 19, 2025

Burbank Police Track Fire Relief Scams and Looting Activity

January 14, 2025
Nahal Garakani - LA Post

Burbank police issued an alert Monday warning residents about fraudulent activity targeting both fire victims and those trying to support relief efforts.

Law enforcement officials reported multiple deceptive schemes emerging as the community responds to the wildfire emergency. Scammers attempt to capitalize on public generosity during the emergency posing as charity representatives to steal personal information and money.

As evacuations continue across affected areas, police have heightened security measures against both physical and digital threats. Officers are conducting increased patrols in evacuated neighborhoods while simultaneously tracking various financial exploitation schemes targeting displaced residents.

Police reported multiple schemes attempting to exploit community generosity during the wildfire emergency. Officials advised residents to verify any charitable organization through independent sources before making contributions.

Warning signs of fraudulent activity include high-pressure solicitation tactics and demands for payment through untraceable methods, according to police. The department particularly warned about unsolicited requests seeking personal data or immediate financial commitments.

Law enforcement also noted an increase in reports of individuals misrepresenting themselves as disaster response personnel. The department urges residents to independently verify credentials through official government channels rather than relying on contact information provided during solicitations.

Police advise taking time to evaluate any donation request, regardless of its apparent urgency.

Suspected scams can be reported to:

  • Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department: (213) 229-1700 - Available 24/7 to take reports of suspected fraud and dispatch investigators when necessary
  • California Fraud Hotline: 1-888-750-4880 - Staffed Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by trained fraud specialists who can assist with filing complaints and connect victims with resources.

Residents can also visit ftc.gov/complaint to file reports of suspicious activity directly with federal authorities.

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