FEMA is warning people in West Virginia to be on the look-out for scammers during recovery and re-building efforts.
"In some cases following disaster situations there are people or companies that may come through a disaster stricken area and try to take advantage of folks. So we just want to make sure folks are aware that the potential for fraud may exist," says FEMA External Affairs Officer, Noel Boxer.
He adds that many different kinds of fraud can happen, and you may be approached in person, by telephone, or internet.
FEMA says they don't ever charge for information or commodities such as water. They also don't ever send out text messages or ask for personal information such as social security, or bank account numbers.
Boxer, explains some other potential scams. "Contractors for example that aren't licensed or individuals that come up and say they're going to do a bunch of work for someone. They ask for an upfront cash deposit, they say they're going down the street to a store to buy supplies and then they never come back or shotty workmanship, or individuals or companies who may not have the appropriate licensing also, insurance to cover their particular needs as they work on a private property. Things of that nature."
If you feel you may have been scammed, you are encouraged to call local law enforcement.
