Tips for avoiding scams after disasters

You may receive a recorded call promising a government grant, flood insurance or help with applications for assistance. Do not respond or provide personal information or payment to these callers. They may be scams trying to get your credit card or checking account information.

"Scammers often try to take advantage of you during a crisis: when you may be vulnerable and looking for help, particularly when you don't have phone or internet service to do research," said Carol Ehlers, human sciences specialist in family wellbeing and finance with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, in a ne...