Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

Authorities warn of scams after L.V. shooting, other tragedies

Officials are warning the public about possible fraudulent fundraising efforts that may emerge following catastrophic events, such as the Oct. 1 Las Vegas mass shooting, according to the office of the U.S. attorney for the district of Nevada.

Criminals may exploit recent natural disasters, such as hurricanes, and the Las Vegas shooting for personal gain through online, door-to-door, mailers, and telephone soliciting, officials said. “Disaster fraud is a federal crime.”

The warning is being heeded by the Nevada U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI through the Department of Justice, which established the National Center for Disaster Fraud following Hurricane Katrina.

Anyone who suspects fraudulent efforts can contact the 24/7 National Disaster Fraud hotline at 866-720-5721, email to [email protected] and (fax) 225-334-4707.

For tips on how to avoid falling victim to scams, visit here.

For more information, visit justice.gov/disaster-fraud.