News & Stories

January 2025

Beware of Disaster Scams

A disaster scam is a fraudulent attempt to take advantage of people after a disaster. Scammers may pose as disaster aid workers, relatives, or contractors. They may try to obtain money or personal information through fraud or identity theft.

How to avoid disaster scams

• Don’t pay for disaster assistance or help filling out applications 
• Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant and asks for large cash deposits or advance payments 
• Don’t share personal or financial information online 
• Don’t sign a contract with blank spaces on it 
• Don’t pay for work up front 
• Inspect the work and make sure you’re satisfied before you pay 

How to report disaster scams

• Report fraud cases to local law enforcement
• Contact the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721
• Email StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov
• Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
• Report it to the United States Department of Justice (.gov)