Insurance Fraud Experts Preview Post-Disaster Scams at Governor's Hurricane Conference In Orlando

ORLANDO, Florida, May 14, 2014 — Immediately after a natural disaster, insurance companies and their claims adjusters arrive on the scene with checkbooks in hand to start the recovery process for policyholders. Unfortunately, the availability of that money often attracts unscrupulous types looking to profit from the misfortune of storm victims. The Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) has organized a workshop at this week’s Governor’s Hurricane Conference to help people spot post-disaster scams and ensure that insurance money goes toward rebuilding, not to profiteers.

 

The tragic result of disaster fraud is that some people are victimized twice: once by the weather and a second time by a crook. Alan Haskins of the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB)and Major Geoffrey Branch of the Florida Division of Insurance Fraud will present a workshop entitled, “Fraud Fighters: Stopping Post-Disaster Scams”. The session is Thursday, May 15 from 3:30-5 p.m. in Room W305 A/B of the Orange County Convention Center, West Concourse.

 

Insurance fraud is a crime, and insurance companies, law enforcement and the NICB are aligned to prevent and combat it.

 

The workshop will inform people to be on the lookout for “criminal storm chasers” and explain that scams can occur when unlicensed opportunists descend on storm victims. Workshop attendees will gain insights into the concerted efforts that go into putting fraudsters out of business and learn how to protect themselves. 

 

Interviews with the speakers can be arranged prior to the workshop.

 

 

THE I.I.I. IS A NONPROFIT, COMMUNICATIONS ORGANIZATION SUPPORTED BY THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY.