Florida is fighting back against disaster fraudsters in the aftermath of the devastating Hurricane Milton. The state’s Chief Financial Officer, Jimmy Patronis, has deployed Disaster Fraud Action Strike Teams (DFAST) into several impacted counties over the weekend. These teams, comprising 18 trained personnel, aim to identify and tackle potential scams that may prey on the residents severely affected by the storm.
Patronis has taken this proactive measure to protect his fellow Floridians from opportunistic fraudsters looking to exploit the chaos and confusion following the monster storm that tore through the state from October 9th to 10th. He said, “Just minutes after a storm, the bad actors and scam artists swoop in to try and take advantage of the destruction and make a quick buck. I refuse to allow fraudsters to come between you and your recovery…”
Three Key Points about DFAST
One: These specialized strike teams are made up of trained insurance fraud investigators with expert knowledge of homeowners and auto insurance fraud. Their main objective is to ensure residents are aware of the signs of fraud and to hold lawbreakers accountable.
Two: These teams have been deployed to storm-impacted areas including Hillsborough, Sarasota, and St. Lucie counties. This is the same action Patronis took after Hurricane Helene hit the west coast of Florida on September 26th.
Three: Since their deployment, DFAST officers have interacted with nearly 100 homeowners, businesses, and contractors in storm-affected counties, educating them about potential fraud risks.
Spotting Fraud: The Tell-Tale Signs
Patronis urged residents to be vigilant, identifying some common signs of fraud that residents should look out for, especially with contractors. These include:
• A contractor or service provider who offers to waive or discount your insurance deductible.
• A contractor or service provider who has received payment but has failed to provide any repairs to your home.
• A contractor or service provider who offers repairs at a cash-only discounted rate and fails to deliver.
Conclusion: Stay Alert, Stay Safe
The aftermath of a disaster like Hurricane Milton can be overwhelming, with victims grappling with loss and uncertainty. The last thing they need is to fall prey to unscrupulous fraudsters seeking to exploit their vulnerability. Thanks to the proactive efforts of CFO Patronis and the DFAST, residents have an additional layer of protection. However, the responsibility also lies with each individual to stay alert, ask the right questions, and not fall for scams. As Patronis wisely advised, “As you work to recover, don’t feel pressured by anyone and DON’T SIGN ANYTHING!”
By being aware of the signs of fraud and exercising caution, residents can ensure they are not victimized a second time as they strive to rebuild their lives post-Hurricane Milton.
