Suburban flood victims warned to watch out for scams

CHICAGO — Illinois' attorney general is warning homeowners cleaning up and making repairs after this week's storms to be on the lookout for con artists posing as legitimate contractors.

Lisa Madigan issued the words of caution Friday as the daunting clean up began in flooded areas of northern and central Illinois.

She says so-called "storm chasers" are known to descend on disaster areas as people are scrambling to secure and repair their property.

Madigan recommends people verify that contractors have insurance and permits and avoid rushing into contracts or making down payments.

She says homeowners should be especially wary of contractors who go door to door to offer their services.

She asks those witnessing suspicious activity to call the consumer fraud hotline at 1-800-386-5438.