07/01/2022 | News release | Distributed by Public on 07/01/2022 10:40
HELENA - Attorney General Austin Knudsen is encouraging Montanans to take precautions and be aware of scammers looking to take advantage of those beginning to repair their homes and businesses following the state's recent flooding. It is highly likely that with the severe flooding many Montanans experienced recently will come fraudulent contractors posing as professionals looking to make a quick buck off the misfortune of others.
He's also warning would-be scammers: The Department of Justice's Division of Criminal Investigation investigates cases of suspected scams which can carry serious punishment for the perpetrator, including prison time. For example, a man was sentenced to a total of 160 years (65 years inmate status followed by 95 years of probation) last year for his multi-county contractor schemes in Montana.
"As homeowners and business owners begin to repair their properties following recent flooding, fraudsters will undoubtedly use this as an opportunity to prey on unsuspecting Montanans. Please, do your homework to avoid scams," Attorney General Knudsen said. "Scammers who take advantage of Montanans will be investigated, prosecuted, and face the possibility of prison time."
Prior to finding a contractor or beginning any work, Montanans should contact their home insurance company. For more information on finding a qualified contractor visit the Montana Department of Justice website at https://dojmt.gov/consumer/choosing-a-contractor/.
To avoid becoming the victim of a contractor scam, the Montana Department of Justice's Office of Consumer Protection suggests:
To report a scam, contact the DOJ's Office of consumer protection at https://app.doj.mt.gov/OCPPortal/?q=node/396, [email protected], or (406) 444-4500 or toll free at (800) 481-6896.
During times of natural disasters, scammers will also pretend to be from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA provides these reminders to avoid an impersonator:
For more information on FEMA programs and potential FEMA scams visit https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/program. The Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) also has programs related to natural disasters - find more information at http://dnrc.mt.gov/divisions/water/operations/floodplain-management/disaster-and-recovery.