Burke County Government, in collaboration with FEMA, reminds individuals that answering phone calls from FEMA representatives is critical for receiving disaster assistance, and to beware of scammers during this time of disaster recovery.
FEMA representatives are currently calling individuals who have applied for disaster assistance. The phone calls may come from unknown area codes or phone numbers. The numbers may be marked as “potential spam” or “no caller ID.” It’s important that those who have applied for disaster assistance answer every call.
Scammers often prey on disaster areas. To avoid being scammed, look out for people claiming to be FEMA representatives who:
— Call even though no application for disaster assistance was filed.
— Ask for banking information. Actual FEMA representatives never ask for banking information or any other personal financial information.
— Or, say that money is owed and try to collect payment. Actual FEMA representatives never request payment.
To ensure that calls are from an actual FEMA representative, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
Legitimate FEMA representatives are currently calling residents following up on applications for assistance, including issues with applications (such as missing documentation or insurance settlement paperwork), issues with access and functional needs, and to schedule inspections of reported damage. The inspections are required to determine if a home is safe, sanitary, functional, and accessible. Delaying an inspection slows down the application review process.
Anyone with knowledge of fraud, waste, or abuse, should report the information to the FEMA Fraud Disaster Hotline by calling 866-720-5721. The hotline is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Fraud may also be reported by email (stopFEMAfraud@fema.dhs.gov).
Anyone who believes they are victims of a scam related to Helene should file a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Justice by visiting ncdoj.gov/complaint or by calling 877-566-7226.
More on FEMA Encourages Public to be Aware of Disaster Assistance Scammers available on WHKY.
