Disaster Victims: Beware of Scams 

Release Date: June 6, 2007
Release Number: 1699-024

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WICHITA, Kan. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Kansas Division of Emergency Management (KDEM) are warning Kansas residents against a particular kind of fraud that may follow in the wake of a major disaster - identity theft.

People living in the disaster area may receive a letter, a phone call, or an e-mail from someone posing as a state or federal official.

The imposter claims he is holding a disaster assistance grant or loan for the applicant, and all he needs is the person's bank account number, Social Security number, or other personal information to complete the processing.

In some cases, the imposter may even ask for a "processing fee" up front to be paid by either credit card or an online payment service such as "PayPal."

A twist on the same scheme is for someone pretending to work for a volunteer organization to offer to help fill out an application for disaster assistance. The real object, of course, is to steal the victim's banking information.

"Don't be fooled by come-ons like these," warns Michael L. Karl, the federal coordinating officer in charge of disaster recovery operations for Kansas.

"Neither FEMA nor the state will ever call you asking for that information or for a fee of any kind," he explained. "The only time FEMA collects banking information is when the applicant first registers for assistance and requests direct deposit for aid funds. But that occurs only when the applicant calls FEMA, not the other way around."

When in person, FEMA and state representatives carry a photo ID. Ask to see it. If still unsure, call FEMA to verify at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for those with special speech or hearing needs. Another clue is to look for official clothing, such as a FEMA shirt or jacket.

"Individuals who would attempt to scam disaster victims are not welcome in Kansas," Angee Morgan, state coordinating officer, said. "We must all be on alert for these scams and report anything that appears suspicious to the appropriate authorities."

Those suspecting fraud may report it to the Kansas Attorney General's Consumer Hotline (800) 432-2310 or (785) 296-3751.

"The Attorney General's Office will continue its effort to protect Kansans from fraud and scams following the Greensburg tornado and other weather disasters," Attorney General Paul Morrison said. "My Consumer Protection Division stands ready to assist consumers who believe they are a victim of fraud."

FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror. 

Last Modified: Thursday, 07-Jun-2007 04:13:12