Stay Alert, Montanans: How Cybercriminals Exploit Wildfires and How You Can Protect Yourself
Because, Cybersecurity Awareness Month is EVERY MONTH!
Stay Alert, Montanans: How Cybercriminals Exploit Wildfires and How You Can Protect Yourself
When disasters like the California wildfires devastate communities, many of us are moved to help or seek information to stay safe. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are just as quick to act—but for all the wrong reasons. These opportunists exploit emergencies to deceive and defraud people. Montanans may feel far removed from the immediate danger, but the ripple effects of such events can still reach us through scams and misinformation.
This post is your guide to staying informed, alert, and prepared—whether you're safeguarding your finances, your identity, or your loved ones. Let’s break down the tactics scammers use and how you can outsmart them.
Common Scams During Disasters
Impersonation Scams: Scammers pose as government officials, emergency responders, or disaster relief workers. They may claim to need personal information or payment to expedite relief efforts or send updates about evacuations.
Phishing Emails: Fraudsters send emails pretending to provide urgent updates on wildfires, evacuation notices, or ways to donate. These often contain malicious links or attachments designed to steal your personal or financial information.
Fake Donation Requests: Be wary of websites, text messages, or calls asking for donations. Some may mimic trusted organizations like the Red Cross but funnel your contributions into the wrong hands.
Crowdfunding Scams: Fraudulent campaigns on platforms like GoFundMe exploit emotional appeals. These scammers create fake stories of victims needing urgent financial help.
Emergency Supply Scams: Offers for fire-prevention tools or essential supplies like masks and air purifiers may require payment upfront but never deliver the goods.
Insurance Fraud: Criminals posing as insurance agents may contact you to “expeditiously” process claims for fire-related damages—but only after you pay a fee.
Social Media Impersonation: Fake profiles circulate on platforms like Facebook, pretending to be victims or relief organizations. They often ask for donations or personal information.
A Montana-Specific Approach
Although Montana isn’t directly affected by the California wildfires, cybercriminals often extend their schemes nationwide. They may fabricate claims that wildfires are spreading to our state or use emotional appeals to manipulate Montanans into giving money or sensitive information. Montana is no stranger to wildfires.
But there’s good news: Montana offers tools like the Everbridge Emergency Alert System to keep citizens informed about legitimate emergencies and updates. We’ll guide you on how to sign up for this essential service below.
How to Stay Safe and Verify Information
1. Verify Charities and Relief Efforts
Use trusted resources like Charity Navigator, the Better Business Bureau, or the IRS’s Tax-Exempt Organization Search to confirm the legitimacy of donation requests.
***Avoid contributing via links sent in unsolicited emails or texts. Instead, go directly to the charity’s official website.***
2. Spot Red Flags
Pressure to Act Quickly: Scammers often create urgency to push you into making snap decisions.
Unconventional Payment Methods: Be cautious of requests to pay via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
Generic Email Domains: Legitimate organizations rarely use generic email providers like Gmail or Yahoo for outreach.
3. Be Wary on Social Media
Verify accounts by looking for blue checkmarks or official designations.
Avoid sharing unverified stories or donation links, as this can spread scams further.
4. Use Trusted Alert Systems
Sign up for the Everbridge Emergency Alert System to receive accurate, real-time updates about emergencies in your area. Follow our walkthrough below to ensure you’re prepared.
How to Sign Up for Emergency Alerts in Yellowstone County
Montanans have access to the Yellowstone County Informed (YCI) Alert & Warning System powered by Everbridge. This system delivers critical, time-sensitive information about emergencies like severe weather, missing persons, and road closures.
Steps to Sign Up:
Visit the Yellowstone County Disaster & Emergency Services Page: Go to Yellowstone County DES Emergency Alerts.
Click on the "Sign Up Now" Button: This will redirect you to the Everbridge Member Portal.
Create Your Account:
Fill out your first and last name.
Create a unique username and password (ensure the password meets the requirements for security).
Choose a security question for account recovery.
Customize Your Alerts:
Specify where you want to receive alerts (home, mobile, email).
Opt-in for alerts relevant to your area or needs.
Actionable Steps to Protect Yourself and Your Community
Stay Informed: Sign up for the Everbridge system and follow reputable sources for emergency updates.
Educate Loved Ones: Share these tips with family and friends, especially seniors or those less familiar with online scams.
Report Scams: If you encounter fraudulent activity, contact the Montana Attorney General’s Office or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Spread Awareness: Share this blog with others to help your community stay vigilant and safe.
Empowering Montanans to Act Safely
Scammers thrive on chaos, but with the right knowledge and tools, we can stay one step ahead. By staying alert, verifying information, and using resources like Yellowstone County’s emergency alert system, you can protect yourself while still supporting those in need responsibly.
Together, let’s ensure that our efforts to help don’t line the pockets of cybercriminals. Stay safe, Montana!
And, STAY VIGILANT!
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