Flood/Disaster Scam Resources

The following is a list of contact information to help prevent becoming a disaster scam victim and to respond if you believe you may be a victim. The information was provided by Governor Kulongoski and Oregon Attorney General Hardy Myers.

DONATION SCAMS

*ALL Charities lawfully authorized to solicit funds in Oregon are registered with the Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ). The registration can be confirmed at: www.doj.state.or.us/charigroup or by calling 971-673-1880 These groups also file annual reports with the DOJ that show how much of the charity's total revenues are devoted to services helping the charity's beneficiaries. There are a number of chartiy "watchdogs" that can be found at: www.give.org www.charitywatch.org www.charitynavigator.org

CONSUMER SCAMS

*Disaster victims should avoid unlicensed contractors promising immediate, cheap home repair or tree removal. Phony clean-up crews and tree-cutting services also may begin soliciting services with an advance deposit on future work that is never perfromed. -Consumers are encouraged to deal with only licensed and bonded contractors and should check complaint histories and ask for references before giving any money. You can call the Constructors Contractors Board at 503-378-4621 or visit: www.oregon.gov/ccb The Landscaper Contractors Board can be called at 503-378-5909 or visit: www.lcb.info@state.or.us Door-to-door solicitors selling emergency products must register to conduct business in Oregon. You can verify a business registration by checking with the Secretary of State's Corporations Division by calling 503-986-2200 or visit: www.filinginoregon.com *The 2007 Legistlature passed Seneate Bill 118 that outlaws price gouging in selling basic products and services during certain times of emergency. If you suspect, experience, or observe a sale they believe would constitute price gouging or witness suspect business activity you should call the Attorney General's Hotline at: 1-877-877-9392 (hotline hours are 8:30am to 4:30pm) Complaints can also be filed online at: www.doj.state.or.us

FEMA Hotline

FEMA also offers a hotline telephone number that you can call to report any suspected disaster funding fraud. If you feel someone is illegally obtaining funds from FEMA or other government entities please call: 1-800-323-8603