DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office:
While the community works to recover, fraudsters will use this opportunity scam anyone they can for quick money. To fight against fraud and scams, FEMA asks you report any suspicious activity to the disaster fraud hotline at (866) 720-5721.
Someone wearing a shirt or jacket that says FEMA does not constitute an official ID. Ask to see their FEMA photo ID badge. Federal law prohibits taking a photo or photocopying U.S. government identification cards, so don’t do that, as it is a violation that is punishable by fine and imprisonment.
Please do your research and utilize all resources available. If you’re still unsure, always call and verify through FEMA directly.
If you find a FEMA inspector’s letter on your door and you did not apply for assistance with FEMA, contact FEMA or the FEMA Fraud Investigations and Inspections Division at 866-223-0814 or email [email protected].
The FEMA inspector was following FEMA inspection guidelines and protocols. You may contact the inspector directly and explain that you did not apply. The inspector will then report what transpired.
You can verify you have a pending inspection by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or video relay service (VRS). You can also visit DisasterAssistance.gov and select “Review Status.” You are encouraged to verify your address is correct and to provide specific directions to your property.
Still want to learn more on how to properly ID an inspector? https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/how-identify-fema-inspector
