FEMA warns New Mexico wildfire victims of fraud, scams

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – FEMA is warning New Mexicans to watch out for scams and fraud concentrating on residents affected by wildfires. They are saying individuals pretending to be with FEMA, could attempt to steal cash or private info and in some circumstances apply for FEMA advantages.

FEMA is reminding people who representatives don’t ask for cost or settle for cash for companies. FEMA representatives will ask for social safety and checking account numbers once you apply for help. They urge individuals to be cautious when offering private info and to not disclose info to unsolicited calls or emails.

Additionally they say FEMA is not going to contact you except you might have referred to as first or utilized for help. Persons are inspired to ask to see ID badges as a result of all FEMA representatives carry a badge.

FEMA says scammers can also goal property house owners who’ve been affected by the wildfires. FEMA reminds people who its inspectors won’t ever ask on your nine-digit registration quantity and they’re going to by no means rent or endorse particular contractors.

Residents are inspired to report any suspicious habits. To report scams or fraud contact FEMA’s toll-free Catastrophe Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, The Division of Justice’s Nationwide Middle for Catastrophe Fraud, or the New Mexico Workplace of the Lawyer Basic’s web page.