Indiana Attorney General warns people of flood related scams INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indiana residents recovering from recent severe storms and flooding are urged to remain vigilant against fraudulent contractors and charity scams. The storm, described as an “inland hurricane” by Indiana Att orney General Todd Rokita, caused at least seven deaths and widespread damage across Lake County and surrounding areas. Rokita cautioned storm survivors to carefully vet unsolicited contractors promising quick home repairs. Officials in Griffith have already reported aggressive door-to-door salespeople falsely claiming the Federal Emergency Management Agency will cover specific repair costs. Rokita noted that state authorities have not confirmed which expenses FEMA will pay, advising residents to treat such claims with skepticism. Indiana law requires home repair contractors to provide written contracts detailing completion deadlines and documentation of any changes in scope. Homeowners also have a three-day right to cancel signed contracts. Rokita warned that contractors who offer to waive insurance deductibles are breaking the law. “It is illegal for a contractor to say, ‘I will waive your insurance deductible,’” Rokita said. “That’s a form of insurance fraud.” To reduce financial risk, residents should withhold down payments until work physically begins, keep those payments as small as possible and use credit cards for added consumer protection. State officials also cautioned against donating to unfamiliar online campaigns. Rokita urged Hoosiers to give through established charities and their official websites. “Don’t crowdfund the strangers,” Rokita said. Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a scam should contact local law enforcement immediately. Reports can also be filed through the Indiana Attorney General’s Office website or by phone. The Better Business Bureau is available as an additional resource for verifying businesses and reporting suspected fraud. ...read more read less