Hurricane Irma scammers posing as Federal Emergency Management Agency contractors
"We've had some calls about '
If anyone claiming to be from
More:USA TODAY's complete coverage of Hurricane Irma
Officials had not received any additional complaints Saturday and were unsure if elderly residents had been targeted, a common practice among post-disaster scammers, according to local law enforcement.
Several other accounts of bad or criminal behavior, including reports of aggressive behavior at grocery stores and gas stations, have been reported to local law enforcement, officials said at the press conference.
More:Follow Hurricane Irma's effects on the
"We're having some examples of tempers flaring as people wait in line,"
Common post-disaster scams
* Identity theft: Beware of visits, calls or emails from people claiming to be from
* Phony housing inspectors: Actual FEMA representatives carry photo ID. Ask to see it. If unsure, call
* Bogus pleas for post-disaster donations: Be aware that fake disaster aid solicitations may arrive by phone, email, letter or face-to-face visits. To ensure a charity is legitimate, get detailed information about the charity and call to confirm.
How to avoid contractor scams
* Use licensed local contractors backed by reliable references.
* Demand contractors carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation.
* Do not pay more than half the costs of repairs upfront.
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