Beware of contractors who take money up front without a written contract. Make your final payment only when the work is completed to your satisfaction. Charitable frauds can be avoided by checking to make sure the charity is registered with the Secretary of State's office. Ask for the canvasser's identification and charity location and phone number. Legitimate charity workers won't mind if you check out the information they provide.
Telephone solicitations can also be fraudulent.
Don't give out your Social Security number, credit card number or checking account number over the phone unless you are sure you are dealing with a legitimate company. Meanwhile, check with the Better Business Bureau office. Disaster victims need immediate financial help, so they are especially vulnerable to financial fraud. Maddux tells them to be leery of offers of help to fill out loan or grant forms for an application fee. Use a reputable accountant, financial counselor or planner, bank, credit union or nonprofit organization to help you fill out forms, if necessary.