United Group Insurance

Potential for Sandy scams prompts warnings

News

November 1st, 2012 by Ric Hanson

No sooner than the floodwaters had receded and high winds from Superstorm Sandy faded, another threat is arising with the inevitable appearance of the scammer and the conman. Authorities warn of the likelihood of Sandy-related fraud reaching far beyond the storm zone — from bogus charities seeking donations, to home repair scams and sales of flood-damaged vehicles. State attorneys general, business and consumer groups and the Justice Department are among those cautioning consumers to be wary as requests for donations start arriving via email, text message, telephone and Twitter.

The bottom line: Maintain a healthy skepticism when pitched by solicitors, contractors and groups you don’t know, and give your money to charities and businesses you have reason to trust.