Residents in the disaster-designated counties affected by recent storms and flooding are urged to be careful of scams during recovery efforts.

"Unfortunately, some people prey on others, taking advantage of their misfortunes," said Gracia B. Szczech, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Federal Coordinating Officer in charge of the recovery efforts. "We urge disaster survivors to be especially careful."

In a typical scheme, someone pretends to be employed by FEMA or other government agencies, such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). A FEMA or SBA shirt, jacket or hat is not proof of someone's affiliation with these agencies. Authorized personnel wear a laminated photo identification card at all times.

Imposters may ask for some form of payment or a bribe. FEMA-contracted housing inspectors assess damage but do not determine cost estimates. They do not hire or endorse specific contractors to fix homes or recommend repairs.

Consumers should know that a Social Security or bank account number will only be requested on the first phone call the applicant makes to 800-621-FEMA (3362). Online registration at www.DisasterAssistance.gov is also secure. On any follow-up calls, a FEMA representative may ask for only the last four digits of a Social Security number.

Anyone who notices suspicious activity in his or her neighborhood or who suspects that someone is trying to commit fraud by going door-to-door or by making contact by phone or mail should immediately contact the local police.

Tennesseans who suspect anyone of committing disaster fraud, whether as a contractor, inspector or even a disaster survivor offering to do work-for-hire, or who suspect someone is posing as any of these, either in person or on the phone or on the Internet, should call the Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs toll-free at 800-342-8385.