Hurricane season is here – Prepare for storms and scammers

Press release from the Florida Department of Elder Affairs

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Scammers often take advantage of emergencies, so everyone should learn how to protect themselves before hurricane season begins. Hurricane season is here, and preparation is one of the best ways to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your finances.

Unfortunately, scammers often target older adults before and after storms. They may pretend to be contractors, utility companies, charities, insurance representatives, or government agencies offering emergency assistance.

These scams can happen by phone, text, email, social media, or even door-to-door.

Red Flags

• Requests for upfront payment before work begins
• Pressure to act immediately
• Contractors without licenses or written estimates
• Demands for payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or payment apps
• Unexpected calls or messages offering disaster assistance
• Unusually high prices for emergency supplies, repairs, fuel, food, lodging, or services after a declared emergency

Tips to Protect Yourself

• Verify contractors and companies before hiring
• Never pay the full amount upfront
• Ask for written estimates and contracts
• Contact your insurance company directly using trusted phone numbers
• Be cautious of anyone asking for personal or financial information after a storm
• Be cautious of unusually high prices after a disaster and report suspected price gouging

Emergency Preparedness Tips

• Keep important documents in a waterproof container
• Review insurance information before hurricane season
• Create a trusted emergency contact list
• Charge devices and prepare backup communication plans

Price Gouging Awareness

After the Governor declares a State of Emergency, charging excessively increased prices for essential goods or services may be considered price gouging under Florida law.

This may include:
• Fuel
• Water
• Hotel rooms
• Generators
• Emergency repairs
• Food and supplies

If prices seem unusually high after a disaster, document the business name, price, and details, if possible, before reporting concerns.

How to Report Disaster-Related Scams or Get Help

• Florida Elder Helpline/SHINE-SMP Program: 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337)
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): disasterassistance.gov
• Report price gouging and consumer fraud to the Florida Attorney General Consumer Protection Division at MyFloridaLegal.com
• Federal Trade Commission Fraud Reporting: ReportFraud.gov
• Identity Theft Resource Center: 888-400-5530 or idtheftcenter.org
• Verify licensed contractors through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation at MyFloridaLicense.com

Reporting scams and suspicious activity can help protect other older adults and prevent additional fraud after disasters.

We’re Here to Help

To find help in your area, call 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337). To stay informed and receive real-time fraud alerts, sign up for Operation Senior Shield (OSS): opseniorshieldfl.com

Storms can be unpredictable, but preparation can help protect you from both emergencies and scams. After a disaster, take time to verify before signing contracts, sharing information, or paying unusually high prices for goods or services. Staying informed and speaking up about suspicious activity helps protect older adults across Florida.