State and federal recovery officials encourage Texans to watch for and report any suspicious activity or potential fraud from scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals. Also, FEMA does not endorse any commercial businesses, products or services.
FEMA encourages survivors as well as local residents and businesses to be especially vigilant for these common post-disaster fraud practices:
Fraudulent building contractors. When hiring a contractor:
Be aware that disaster aid solicitations may arrive by phone, email, letter or face-to-face visits.
To ensure a charity is legitimate:
A legitimate charity will not ask for personal information or a credit card number by text.
They will ask for an applicant’s Social Security number, bank account number or other sensitive information because their real goal is to steal personal identity and money.
FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.
Inspectors do not hire or endorse specific contractors to fix homes or recommend repairs.
They do not determine eligibility for assistance.
Ask to see it.
If unsure, call FEMA to verify the employee at 800-621-3362 (FEMA) or TTY 800-462-7585.
If fraud is suspected, call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. If you are a victim, suspect a home repair scam, are contacted for unsolicited information, or believe a business is practicing price gouging, call the Office of the Texas Attorney General at 800-252-8011.
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