Beware of Disaster-Related Scams In Wake of Ida, Says AG

NEW JERSEY — Acting Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck and the Division of Consumer Affairs are warning New Jersey residents against scams related to ongoing rebuilding efforts post-Tropical Storm Ida.

Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency across New Jersey on Sept. 1 as Ida spawned devastating tornadoes, caused record rainfall and powerful flash flooding from south to north. The death toll from Ida now stands at 30, the highest New Jersey has seen.

Bruck asked residents to beware of price gouging, fake disaster-relief charities, and the sale of flood-damaged vehicles.

“Natural disasters like Tropical Storm Ida create opportunities for scammers and con artists to prey on people made vulnerable by the storm’s impact,” Bruck said. “We’re committed to holding those who violate our laws accountable, and are reminding everyone to be on the lookout for fraud and know how to avoid it.”

Bruck’s office said that the aftermath of a natural disaster can be fraught with financial dangers, especially for those preoccupied with finding temporary housing, getting their property repaired, or helping others in need.

New Jersey law prohibits price gouging and consumer frauds during a declared state of emergency, or for 30 days after the termination of the state of emergency.

Sean P. Neafsey, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs said that the storm has left people "in a state of shock and uncertainty.” As they begin trying to recover from the losses they become prime targets for scammers.

“The Division stands ready to investigate and enforce the laws that protect consumers against price gouging, repair scams, charity scams, and other disaster-related fraud, “Neafsey said. “But there is no greater protection against fraud than an educated, alert consumer, and we’re urging residents to be on the lookout for the kinds of exploitation most commonly seen after devastating storms.”

The Division of Consumer Affairs has released a few tips to helps consumers avoid disaster-related scams. The tips include:

• Beware of excessive price increases on essential items and services such as water, food, generators, gas, tows, and tree removal. Report potential excessive price increases to the Division by filing a complaint online or calling (973) 504-6240;
• Before making a charitable donation to a disaster-relief fund, check with the Division to confirm if the charity is registered to solicit in New Jersey, and ask for details on how the money will be used to assist those affected by the storm;
• Before entering a contract for home repairs, verify that the contractor is properly registered with the Division and check to see if the business has been the subject of consumer complaints or legal action by the Division. Be suspicious if asked to pay for the entire project in advance. The general rule of thumb is to pay no more than one-third beforehand, one-third halfway through, and one-third upon completion;
• Be on the lookout for individuals who offer assistance to remove downed trees or debris at inflated prices or demand up-front payments for immediate service;
• Never give financial information to strangers over the phone, text or email;
• Ask to see identification before you let anyone who claims to be from a utility company inspect your home.

Residents can also find additional resources in English and Spanish.

For tips on how to spot a flood-damaged car, click here.

For more tips on how to spot and report disaster-related scams, residents can visit njconsumeraffairs.gov/ida. Additional Tropical Storm Ida information and resources can be found at nj.gov/ida.