Police Warn of Post-Fire Insurance and FEMA Scams in Pasadena

The Pasadena Police Department issued an urgent community alert about an increasing number of insurance and Federal Emergency Management Agency-related fraud attempts targeting community members in the aftermath of the recent Eaton Fire.

According to police officials, scammers are approaching potential victims through various methods, including door-to-door solicitations, unsolicited phone calls and emails.

The Department emphasized that legitimate Federal Emergency Management Agency and insurance representatives will carry proper documentation and will not pressure residents for immediate decisions.

Officials advise contacting insurance companies or the Federal Emergency Management Agency directly using official website phone numbers, not numbers provided by unsolicited contacts.

“Never give personal or financial information to unsolicited contacts,” the Police Department warned in its community alert, emphasizing the importance of independently verifying all credentials.

Law enforcement officials identified several red flags, including demands for payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency, as well as individuals who attempt to rush decisions or make threats.

The Pasadena Police Department urged residents to contact them at (626) 744-4241 if they encounter suspicious activity. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS, via the P3 Tips Mobile APP on Google Play or the Apple App Store, or through lacrimestoppers.org.