Protecting Kentuckians From Natural Disaster Scams
Attorney General’s Office of Consumer Protection Phone: 502-696-5300
Natural Disaster Fraud Hotline: 502-696-5485
Top Six Natural Disaster Scams
Construction & Repair Scams
– Out-of-town contractors may lack licenses or offer ‘quick fixes’.
– Contact your insurance company before hiring contractors
– Get multiple estimates (visit BBB.org or HBAK.com)
– Avoid high-pressure sales tactics
– FEMA does not certify or endorse private contractors
– Never pay upfront or sign over insurance checks
– Ask for proof of insurance (General Liability & Workers Comp)
Price Gouging
– Charging unreasonably high prices for essential goods or services during an emergency is illegal (KRS 367.374)
– Includes food, cleanup, supplies, fuel, housing, etc.
– Report price gouging to 1-888-432-9257 or AG.KY.Gov/PriceGouging
Charity Scams
– Scammers pose as relief organizations to steal personal info
– Legitimate charities will not ask for your banking details
– Verify organizations via: give.org, charitynavigator.org, or guidestar.org
– FEMA’s tips on donating: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/volunteer-donate
Advanced Fee Loan Scam
– Fake lenders offer ‘guaranteed’ loans for a fee paid upfront
– Only work with licensed local lenders
– Verify with KY Department of Financial Institutions
Impersonating Officials
– Scammers may pose as inspectors or FEMA agents
– Real FEMA staff carry laminated photo ID
– Verify by calling FEMA helpline: 800-621-3362
Identity Theft
– Disasters can lead to loss of sensitive documents
– Monitor your credit and place fraud alerts
– Report identity theft at IdentityTheft.gov
How to Report Natural Disaster Scams
If you suspect a scam:
– Report to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-888-432-9257 or online at AG.KY.Gov/Scams
– Contact local law enforcement to report suspicious individuals or vehicles offering services door-to-door. Note license plate numbers and vehicle descriptions.
Additional Resources
Better Business Bureau
– Louisville/Western KY: (800) 388-2222 or (502) 583-6546
– Lexington/Eastern KY: (800) 866-6668 or (859) 259-1008
– Northern KY: (800) 471-3015 or (513) 421-3015
Disaster & Emergency Services
– Contact your local Mayor, County Judge/Executive, or Office of DES
Source: Office of the Attorney General of Kentucky – Natural Disaster Scams Brochure (PDF)