Federal officials issue warning about ‘disaster fraud’ after storm

There’s nothing like a natural disaster to bring out the worst in some people. Federal authorities are warning Hurricane Irma survivors to be wary of fraudsters.

“Although many Americans are working hard to help their neighbors now, during chaotic times, some will always try to take advantage of the most vulnerable,” the Federal Emergency Management Agency said Thursday.

The areas touched by Irma are at risk for scams, identity theft, fraud and false rumors, officials said.

To combat the bad information already making the rounds on social media and the internet, you are encouraged to check out fema.gov/hurricane-irma -rumor-control.

“Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” the government said in a news release.

If you suspect fraud, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud’s hotline at 866-720-5721, email the organization at disaster@leo.gov, or visit justice .gov/disaster-fraud. You can also report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission at ftccomplaintassistant.gov.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency also released some general guidelines to protect against “disaster fraud.” Those are:

Federal and state workers do not ask for, or accept, money. FEMA staff will never charge applicants for disaster assistance, home inspections, or help filling out applications.

Look out for scammers making false promises to speed up the insurance, disaster assistance, or building permit process.

Remember to always ask to see any FEMA employee ID badges. A FEMA shirt or jacket is not proof of identity.

All FEMA representatives, contracted inspectors, will have a laminated photo ID. All National Flood Insurance Program adjusters will have an “Authorized Adjuster Card” with their name and the types of claims they may adjust.

When in doubt, don’t give out personal information, and contact local cops or call 855-352-7233.

More disaster-related fraud information is available on the Florida Attorney General’s Office website at MyFloridaLegal.com or by calling 866-966-7226.

Looters also were out during the hurricane. The Palm Beach County Sheriff ’s Office on Thursday said it is looking for a man who burglarized the 3M Discount Express, in the 600 block of S. Military Trail, West Palm Beach. The individual helped himself to cigarettes, lottery tickets and cash, totaling more than $12,000, according to a news release.