Attorneys General Warn Of Hurricane Scams
By Robert Siciliano Aug 31, 2011 | 7:00:00 pmPosted in: Home Hopefully your homes security was/is intact after the hurricane.
In Rhode Island “Attorney General Peter Kilmartin is alerting citizens about potential scammers.
“We are still in a declared state of emergency, and as such, it is illegal to price gouge. Especially at times like this, it is important for all Rhode Islanders to band together to help neighbors and ensure that no one is taken advantage of,” he said.
Be cautious when allowing workers into your house – any utility worker who is above-board will have identification and will not have a problem showing it to you.
Avoid high-pressure sales tactics. No reputable contractor will try to pressure you into hiring them.
Never pay large sums in advance, and never pay in cash. Scam artists will take the money and run. If you have to make a partial payment in advance for materials, make the check out to the supplier and the contractor or pay with a credit card.
In North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper advised citizens to:
Ask for official ID. If someone comes to your door claiming to be with FEMA or another government agency, ask to see their official laminated photo ID. Do not be fooled by hats or clothing with government logos.
Do not share personal information with anyone you don’t know who contacts you. Legitimate FEMA workers will not call you, email you or knock on your door to ask for information such as you Social Security Number or bank account number. If you decide to fill out an application for assistance, you will need to provide
some personal information.
Robert Siciliano personal and home security specialist to Home Security Source discussing home security and identity theft on TBS Movie and a Makeover. Disclosures.
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