As recovery efforts continue after Hurricane Beryl Houstonians must remain vigilant of scams. Scammers take advantage of natural disasters pretending to be government agencies offering financial assistance, utility companies restoring power, contractors making repairs, etc. Scammers can infiltrate in person, over the phone, via text message, via email, here are a couple of pointers to avoid being scammed:

Ask for Identification: Scammers posing as government officials, and unlicensed contractors can appear at your door. If they refuse to demonstrate identification do not accept their services.

Don’t pay cash or wire money. Do not hire someone for home repairs that demands you pay cash or via wire transfer: It is difficult to claim fraud and get your money returned if payment was made through either method. When possible, deal with your insurance company directly.

Never pay for government services. Do not pay to get government assistance: Scammers might state that to apply for a government benefit you should pay a small amount of money with the promise that you will be compensated more than you paid. No government agency charges for their services. Click here to apply for FEMA assistance.

Don’t text strangers. Do not engage with text messages or emails from unknown senders: Including responding or opening attachments or links in email or text messages.

If it is too good to be true, walk away. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true: Such as contractors promising a quick turnaround, or a large discount. With so many people affected it is difficult for any legitimate company to offer quick services.

For more information on how to spot a scammer and how to avoid being the victim of a scam read the following articles.

How to prevent getting scammed after natural disasters (houstonlanding.org)

Protect yourself from scams as you recover from Hurricane Beryl | Consumer Advice (ftc.gov)

How To Avoid Scams After Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters | Consumer Advice (ftc.gov)