Many Central Texans are still recovering from damage left behind after the winter storm.
“Our pipes froze and busted and we didn’t realize until I think Wednesday. Now there’s water all in my garage,” said Killeen resident Shelby Meza.
“I came home to my room not being in the best of order,” said Killeen resident Dana Smith.
Now, they’re looking to make repairs but experts are warning there are scammers looking to cash in on your misery.
“It’s been quite a bit of people calling and even trying to email you. They’re saying hey if you have damages call this number, we can set you up and you know it’s a scam,” said Smith.
Heather Massey with the Better Business Bureau says they’ve received several reports about price gouging, unlicensed contractors and several other scams targeting locals.
“People like this are gonna come in, they're going to make you an amazing deal because you want repairs done very quickly. Once they ask for the money up front, they take the money and leave,” said Massey.
She said scammers are also sending social media, email and text messages saying there are problems with your account and asking to verify passwords, account numbers and other private information.
“They do create mimic websites where they really look legitimate. Especially if you have a link in an email about a great sale that might be going on. Don’t click on those links,” said Massey.
Massey said some links can embedded malware on your computer or smartphone which scammers use to track websites you visit and your login information.
To avoid these scammers, always reach out to your providers and bank directly to verify any activity and never share your private information before that.
