WHILE MOST PEOPLE REGISTERING FOR HELP HAVE GENUINE NEEDS, THE RUSH TO GET MILLIONS IN DISASTER ASSISTANCE TO THOSE AFFECTED BY SEPTEMBER���S GEORGIA FLOODS, SADLY, PRESENTS OPPORTUNITIES TO DEFRAUD TAXPAYERS.  THE INSPECTOR GENERAL FOR THE FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY INVESTIGATES COMPLAINTS OF FRAUD, WASTE OR ABUSE INVOLVING FEMA CONTRACTS, PROGRAMS OR PERSONNEL. IT MAINTAINS A TOLL-FREE FRAUD HOTLINE AT 866-720-5721.

Jim Homstad/FEMA Public Information Officer (TRT:23)
���We try to make two very basic points. Number one, if you suspect fraud, by all means, report it. Also try to protect yourself by taking the necessary steps. Those who would consider committing fraud, there are very serious penalties which could include imprisonment or fines. We want to get that message out to deter people from even attempting fraud.���

SOME EXAMPLES OF COMPLAINTS THAT ARE TYPICALLY FILED WITH THE FEMA OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL INCLUDE:
���APPLICANTS USING FALSE NAMES AND MULTIPLE AND/OR FICTITIOUS ADDRESSES;
���APPLICANTS CLAIMING LOSSES THEY DIDN���T SUSTAIN OR TO WHICH THEY WERE NOT ENTITLED;
���APPLICANTS NOT USING FEMA MONEY FOR THE INTENDED PURPOSES.

ANYONE SUSPECTING A CONTRACTOR, INSPECTOR, DISASTER SURVIVOR OR SOMEONE POSING AS ANY OF THESE IS ENGAGING IN FRAUDULENT ACTIVITIES SHOULD CALL THE FEMA DISASTER FRAUD HOTLINE TOLL-FREE AT 866-720-5721.