Be Aware of Fraud After Surfside Building Collapse

Scammers may contact those impacted by the Champlain Towers South collapse and try to extract money or information on the pretext of helping them seek assistance.

FEMA reminds survivors:

• Some survivors of the building collapse may be contacted through phone calls, emails or social media by people requesting money for services.
• FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) never charge for registration, grants, disaster-loan applications or anything else.
• No one from FEMA will contact you and ask for money.
• When FEMA calls you about your registration, the call may come from a number you are not familiar with. The FEMA specialist will have your registration number.
• If you have a question about such a solicitation, please visit FEMA at the North Shore Branch Library, 7501 Collins Ave., open until Aug. 6. Hours are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday and Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Or call FEMA at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).
• If you suspect fraud, contact the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office at 305-547-3300 or email Hotline@miamisao.com.

FEMA also recommends you monitor your credit report for any accounts or changes you do not recognize. If you discover someone is using your information, you will need to take additional steps, including filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission through its website: IdentityTheft.gov.