Recent flood victims are urged to seek and accept assistance with caution as their current situation leaves them vulnerable to scams. Illinois officials in particular are warning that scammers and con artists will seize the opportunity to offer fraudulent promises of cleanup or repair services.
An article from AdVantage News shares perspectives from several prominent Illinois officials that offer advice on how to identify the warning signs of a scam. They also inform readers of their consumers’ rights and how to confirm the legitimacy of a government official or reliable contractor.
State’s Attorney Thomas Gibbons and other Illinois officials offer these specific guidelines:
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Be wary of people who come to your door. Individuals who appear at your door without an appointment and claim to offer disaster relief could be trying to commit fraud. If you are unsure that the person at your door is who they claim to be, contact a family member or a neighbor for help.
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Demand identification. If someone comes to your door stating they are a contractor or government official, ask to see an ID. Government officials will always have proper identification with their name and photograph.
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Use local and licensed contractors. During the rebuilding process, be sure to use only licensed contractors. Ask the contractor for a license and for references. Get several estimates from contractors and be sure they carry liability and workers’ compensation insurance and are bonded. Homeowners could be liable for accidents on their property if they hire an uninsured contractor. Get written estimates and receipts for all repair payments, including cash. Do not make a check payable to a person other than the company name.
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Safeguard personal information. Do not give bank account or personal information like Social Security numbers to individuals claiming to be affiliated with a government agency or a business trying to sell their services or to someone posing as a charitable organization soliciting fake contributions. Never provide your Social Security and bank information.
Another important indication of potential fraud is any service provider who demands any form of immediate payment such as a down payment or deposit prior to providing any service.
Courtesy of Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, there is a Consumer Fraud Hotline for Illinois residents, 1-800-243-0618. Consumers can also file complaints online: www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/.
Photo by Paul via Flickr CC License
