Scammers arrive after disasters pretending to help

After a hurricane, flood, wildfire, tornado, or severe storm, people need repairs, shelter, insurance help, and reliable information quickly. Scammers exploit that urgency by posing as government workers, contractors, charities, or insurers.

Government and FEMA impersonators

FEMA does not charge an application fee. Anyone demanding payment to apply for disaster assistance is attempting fraud. Start at DisasterAssistance.gov or FEMA.gov rather than a link from an unexpected message.

Repair and cleanup scams

• Be cautious with crews who appear uninvited and promise immediate work.
• Verify licensing and insurance with the appropriate state or local authority.
• Get written estimates from more than one contractor.
• Do not pay the full price upfront or make final payment before the work is complete.
• Avoid contractors demanding wire transfers, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or cash only.

Insurance impersonation

Contact your insurer using the number on your policy or official app. Do not share claim numbers, banking information, or identity documents with someone who called unexpectedly. Confirm an adjuster's name and appointment directly with the insurance company.

Fake charities

Do not donate through an unsolicited text, direct message, or caller. Research the organization independently, verify the exact name, and understand how the donation will be used. A charity that pressures you to donate immediately or insists on unusual payment methods is unsafe.

Prepare before an emergency

• Save your insurer's verified contact information.
• Photograph your property and maintain a household inventory.
• Store important records securely with a strong password and multifactor authentication.
• Identify reputable local contractors before you need urgent repairs.
• Subscribe to official local emergency alerts.

If you paid a scammer

Contact the payment provider immediately, preserve contracts and messages, notify local law enforcement, and report the incident to ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If identity information was exposed, use IdentityTheft.gov.

Source: Federal Trade Commission, September 2026.