Palisades Fire survivor loses $38,000 to scam while rebuilding home after husband’s death

A Pacific Palisades woman who endured both wildfire damage and the loss of her husband is now sharing her story after scammers stole thousands of dollars meant to repair her home.

Ellen Rudolph says she was tricked out of $38,000 after receiving an email that appeared to be from PayPal warning of a suspicious charge. Believing the message was legitimate, she gave the scammers access to her bank account — including funds set aside to rebuild her home following the Palisades Fire.

Rudolph says the loss has been especially painful after an already devastating year. While dealing with fire damage, her husband of 13 years, Steve, was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer and passed away in October at age 81.

She says the emotional toll has been overwhelming but remains determined to return to the home they shared.

Rudolph filed a police report and hopes sharing her experience will help prevent others from becoming victims. She says scammers took advantage of her during one of the most vulnerable times of her life.

Community members have stepped in to help. A GoFundMe campaign has raised more than $23,000 toward a goal of $28,000 to help cover part of the financial loss.

Rudolph says telling her story is about raising awareness so others recognize the warning signs of scams before it’s too late.

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