Texas flood: Cyber experts warn of disaster-related schemes after deadly flooding in Kerr County
Share this @internewscast.com

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Following the devastating floods in Central Texas, cybercriminals are quickly moving to take advantage of people’s generosity.

The National Cybersecurity Alliance is advising the public to remain vigilant against deceitful disaster-related emails, text messages, and websites that typically surface after such events.

These scams prey on people’s emotions and their desire to help others, according to experts.

Fraudsters sometimes employ genuine photos of victims to launch bogus fundraising efforts, and others develop websites imitating popular charitable organizations. Without thorough scrutiny of these sites’ authenticity, individuals might unknowingly contribute to scams.

Leah Napoliello, vice president of the Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas, shared the following guidance with Eyewitness News.

“They prey on people’s emotions,” Napoliello said. “They will be very long on emotions but short on actual facts. If you were to ask questions about how they’re helping with relief and recovery, they wouldn’t be able to provide much information. A legitimate charity would be able to provide that information to you.”

She also warned that high-pressure tactics are a common red flag, especially if you’re urged to donate on the spot or send money via gift card.

Victims of these scams are urged to report the fraud to the Federal Trade Commission or the IRS to help prevent further incidents.

For updates on this story, follow Briana Conner on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Copyright © 2025 KTRK-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Good Samaritan rescued baby after thief stole vehicle from Lawndale gas station on South Independence Boulevard with child inside

Hero Rescues Baby After Car Thief Takes Vehicle from Lawndale Gas Station with Child Inside

A family in Chicago is expressing immense gratitude after their baby was…
Trump ramps up fight with Harvard with threat to its accreditation, potentially jeopardizing its student aid

Trump escalates battle with Harvard by threatening its accreditation, possibly endangering student financial aid

The Trump administration has intensified its conflict with Harvard University, with federal…
Dem rep calls out NYC's ongoing failure to tackle Bronx 'open air drug market' crisis

Democratic Representative Criticizes NYC for Failing to Address Bronx’s ‘Open-Air Drug Market’ Issue

On Wednesday, Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., expressed grave concerns about an “open-air…
Mike Johnson steps up calls for fresh Russia sanctions to 'send Putin a message' after Trump ripped Russian's 'bulls---'

Mike Johnson Intensifies Push for New Russia Sanctions to ‘Warn Putin’ Following Trump’s Criticism of Russian Actions

House Speaker Mike Johnson joined the ranks of lawmakers on Wednesday pushing…
X CEO Linda Yaccarino resigns from social media platform after 2 years

Linda Yaccarino Steps Down as CEO of Social Media Company After Two-Year Tenure

Musk hired Yaccarino, a veteran ad executive, in May 2023 buying Twitter…
The Media Is Exposed by the Rash of Official Statements Protecting 'Journalism'

Official Statements Reveal Media’s Bias in Defending ‘Journalism’

In recent weeks, an action that was once uncommon has become frequent,…
Paddleboarder on calm water near a shoreline.

Terrifying Encounter: Paddleboarders Face Giant Great White Shark in Infamous ‘Jaws’ Waters

THIS is the terrifying moment paddleboarders in the “Jaws” country come dangerously…
Faith brings light to devastated Texas town after deadly flooding disaster

Hope Shines on Texas Town in Aftermath of Tragic Flooding

Volunteers have descended upon Kerr County, Texas, in the days following last…
Police say 'sightseers' hindering Texas recovery efforts as teams search for victims in debris

Authorities report that curious onlookers are interfering with recovery operations in Texas as teams work to locate victims in the wreckage.

Texas law enforcement is facing difficulties from “sightseeing” individuals as they try…
Philadelphia workers and city reach a deal to end strike that halted residential trash pickup

Philadelphia Workers and City Reach Agreement to Conclude Strike Disrupting Residential Trash Collection

Officials announced Wednesday that an agreement has been reached between Philadelphia city…
Mugshot of a young woman.

17-Year-Old Girl Turns Herself In for Alleged Murder of Mom and Stepdad, Shot Three Months Ago

A TEENAGER in Georgia has been arrested and charged with the murder…
Disturbing surveillance footage shows tourist French Alps plane crash that killed three people

Chilling Video Captures Plane Crash in French Alps, Resulting in Three Fatalities

Unsettling surveillance footage shows a tourist plane slam into the ground nose-first…