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ICYMI...Miami Herald: “Don’t get duped by insurance scams or you’ll fall victim to Irma again”

10/10/2017

Men cover roof with tarp

“Don’t get duped by insurance scams or you’ll fall victim to Irma again”
Miami Herald
Story by Linda Robertson
October 10, 2017
Click HERE to read the full story
 
Hurricane season isn’t over and therefore neither is consumer scam season, which has gone into hyper mode following Irma’s destructive sweep through Florida.
 
Homeowners are particularly vulnerable to fast-talking, document-waving con artists who promise to help with repairs, insurance claims and FEMA payments.
 
“Hurricanes bring out a lot of good in people and also the worst in those few bad actors preying on homeowners whose most prized asset has been damaged,” said Jon Moore, spokesman for Florida’s Department of Financial Services. “We’re trying to educate and protect Floridians so they don’t fall victim to Irma for a second time.”

...
 
The state has dispatched three anti-fraud strike teams — including one in Miami-Dade County — to investigate suspicious activity and alert residents on how to recognize red flags. They are taking complaints from homeowners, meeting with homeowners associations and partnering with local law enforcement.
 
“To say it frankly, Florida has been through enough and I won’t tolerate fraudsters attempting to take advantage at this high-stress time,” said Jimmy Patronis, the state’s chief financial officer.
 
 
He and consumer advocates are warning people to be “scam smart,” and aware that “if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
 
If you suspect fraud, report it by calling police or the state hotline: 1-800-378-0445.
 
Insurance questions? Call the state Insurance Consumer Helpline: 1-877-693-5236.
 
Consult the state Hurricane Irma Resources page: www.MyFloridaCFO.com.
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