State and local officials are urging residents to be on the outlook for scammers looking to take advantage of those affected from Hurricane Debby.
Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis says the scammers are out there looking to exploit victims of the storm
“Those trying to exploit storm victims, predators are at your doorstep hours after the storm, good Samaritans don’t show up till day three, day four,” said Patronis.
Patronis says the scammers are using a scheme called “direction of payments” where criminals confuse victims and redirect the payment from insurance companies to them.
Patronis tells potential victims, “Predators are going to be canvassing the neighborhoods. Predators will be out right now. They will be making their rounds trying to engage, especially when they see a house that has damage. You don’t want to sign anything, when you sign a document, you could be giving away your claim to a total stranger, Patronis said
State officials tell consumers that before they pay anything out of pocket, they should first contact their insurance company.
Before you allow someone to work on your property, you can check their license with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
Over the years scammers or unqualified out-of-state workers will come into the state and take advantage of Floridians in need of expert service.
If property is damaged from the storm, the Florida Attorney General’s Office offers these tips when hiring a contractor:
“Research a company and its reputation and look for references online or ask a friend,” says the Florida Attorney General’s office.
Also check to see if a company is properly licensed, insured and if there are any consumer complaints filed against a licensed contractor at MyFloridaLicense.com or by calling the Florida Attorney General’s Office at (866) 9NO-SCAM.
