In the wake of recent flooding in southeast South Dakota, Attorney General Marty Jackley has issued a warning to residents about potential scams. These scams, often related to fraudulent home repairs and charity appeals, tend to surface during natural disasters.
“Scam artists prey on those dealing with natural disasters,” said Attorney General Jackley. “They will try and take advantage of South Dakotans’ generosity and say anything to convince you to give them money.”
Attorney General Jackley encourages the public to work with known contractors and charities to protect residents from falling victim to these scams. The Attorney General Office’s Consumer Protection Division has also provided several recommendations:
- Do not give in to high-pressure sales tactics.
- Be cautious with contractors who solicit business door-to-door.
- Always get any repair work, construction orders, and other types of contracts in writing with expected cost estimates.
- Compare written bids from several contractors before signing a contract.
- Never pay for the entire job upfront and withhold the final payment until the work is done satisfactorily.
- Don’t take a contractor’s word that your insurance company will cover the damage. Check directly with your insurance company.
- When it comes to charities, donate to a local organization you know.
- If you have questions about a business or charitable organization, telephone them first to ensure they are legitimate.
- Talk to someone you can trust before you provide money or personal information to someone who contacts you.
You can read the full article at KXLG.