Beware the Storm Chasers! Tips to protect yourself against severe weather scams

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Storm recovery efforts continue after severe weather swept through Georgia over the weekend and into Monday morning.

In Milledgeville and West Point, community members are picking up the pieces of a town ripped apart by tornadoes.

In Troup County, several roads and bridges remain closed due to flooding and debris.

It’s a devastating situation that has left so many vulnerable. Now, officials are warning impacted residents to beware of natural disaster fraud -- an intentional deception to con individuals, often severe weather victims.

The Better Business Bureau says these scammers often disguise themselves as contractors to try to get money out of unsuspecting residents, offering quick fixes and unbelievably good deals.

BBB Consumer Expert Simone Williams shared these tips to protect yourself against a severe weather scam.

• Contact your insurance company IMMEDIATELY
• Find a trusted specialist
• Ask to see proper licensing
• Be skeptical of those “too good to be true” deals
• Be careful of service in areas of your home you cannot see
• Guard your insurance claims
• Use a credit card when paying for services

If you or a loved one have fallen victim to a scam or suspect a scam, report it to the BBB ScamTracker. You can also report suspected fraud by calling the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721.

If you need to report other fraudulent activities during or following a natural disaster, please notify FEMA at 1-866-720-5721 or disaster@leo.gov.

For more information on storm resources, click here.

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