Fact-checking scam claims about Hurricane Helene
- Scammers, those with a political agenda, promoting lies, says White House
- Money diversions, property confiscation are among the lies
- The administration says it will continue to counter misinformation
People load supplies for a search and relief mission in Bills Creek, North Carolina, October 3, 2024, after the passage of Hurricane Helene. (Photo by Allison Joyce / AFP) (Photo by ALLISON JOYCE/AFP via Getty Images)
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(NewsNation) — The federal government has poured more than $110 million into assistance for the victims of Hurricane Helene, with more to come, according to the White House. It’s also trying to call out the many lies about federal hurricane help popping up online.
“A number of scam artists, bad-faith actors, and others who want to sow chaos because they think it helps their political interests are promoting disinformation about the recovery,” said White House Communications Director Ben LaBolt and Director of Digital Strategy Christian Tom in a lengthy statement issued on Saturday.
“Disinformation after a hurricane or other natural disaster can discourage people from seeking critical assistance when they need it most,” the statement added.
The White House and the Federal Emergency Management Agency listed several “falsehoods” that have spread online and countered each with facts.
Claim: Disaster relief funds used on immigrants in the US illegally
Fact-check: False
No money is being diverted from disaster response needs. None. FEMA’s disaster response efforts and individual assistance are funded through the Disaster Relief Fund, which is a dedicated fund for disaster efforts.
Claim: FEMA is confiscating Helene survivors’ property
Fact-check: False
FEMA cannot seize your property or land. Applying for disaster assistance does not grant FEMA or the federal government authority or ownership of your property or land.
Claim: FEMA, FAA restricting North Carolina airspace
Fact-check: False
There are no airspace restrictions in place in North Carolina as rescue efforts continue because of Hurricane Helene. The FAA is working with local authorities to ensure rescue efforts happen safely.
Claim: FEMA no longer accepting housing assistance applications
Fact-check: False
FEMA is still accepting assistance applications throughout areas affected by Helene. For current application timelines, visit disasterassistance.gov.
Claim: FEMA running out of Helene disaster assistance money
Fact-check: False
FEMA has enough money right now for immediate response and recovery needs. If you were affected by Helene, do not hesitate to apply for disaster assistance.
Claim: FEMA is asking for Helene donations, turning away volunteers
Fact-check: False
FEMA does not ask for or generally accept any cash donations or volunteers for disaster response. If you encounter someone claiming to represent FEMA and asking for donations, be careful as that is likely a scam. Government employees will never solicit money.
The White House statement said the administration will continue to use its digital channels to dispel misinformation and share updates about the scope of the federal response to Hurricane Helene.
