MEMA Issues Reminder About Disaster Scam Artists

JACKSON, Miss. (Press Release) — Communities across Mississippi are getting a helping hand from numerous volunteer organizations that are active during disasters, but the one thing that hand will never present to anyone they help is a bill.

“Legitimate volunteer groups do not charge for their services,” Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood said. “If someone tries to demand you pay or tries to give you an invoice for work provided by a volunteer group, you should contact the local authorities or our Consumer Protection Division.”

Be wary of anyone who creates a sense of urgency or uses high-pressure tactics to “act now.” That indicates they are probably a scam artist.

Legitimate volunteer organizations are part of organized relief efforts in each county and are working closely with local authorities. Disaster survivors should always check with local authorities if they have any questions about accepting help from a volunteer group.

So, if you have concerns about whether something is legitimate or a scam, or you suspect that you have become a victim of a scam, please contact the Consumer Protection Division of the Attorney General’s Office at 601-359-4230 or 1-800-281-4418, if you are in Mississippi.