Flooding across northeastern Wisconsin has disrupted daily life for our neighbors in communities like Shiocton and New London. As the water finally recedes, another threat is showing up: disaster recovery scams.

Why These Scams Appear After Disaster

Crisis moments create an opening for fraudulent activity. Scammers pose as contractors, charities, or even trusted utility companies like We Energies. They move quickly, sound legitimate, and count on people being overwhelmed.

The city of New London has already experienced a disaster recovery scam. On Tuesday, April 21, 2026, the New London Police Department reported someone impersonating a We Energies representative. The fraudster claimed pre-payment was needed before natural gas services could be turned back on, which is not correct.

This graphic is from the New London Police Department’s Facebook page.

This shows that disaster recovery scams can arrive just as recovery begins, preying on our confusion, urgency, and the natural desire to get life back to normal. When emotions run high and information is scattered, it becomes easier for a convincing voice or an official‑sounding message to slip through defenses.

So how do we protect ourselves and our community?

Start With Trusted, Verified Resources

When you’re unsure if a call, message, or offer is legitimate, go straight to the trusted organizations built to help during emergencies:

• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – Visit FEMA.gov for verified disaster-assistance programs and guidance on how to avoid fraud.
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC) – The FTC posts current scams alerts and allows you to report suspicious activity at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
• Local Emergency Resources (Dial 2-1-1) – Calling 2-1-1 connects you with local shelters, cleanup support, and community services.
• Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) – DATCP provides contractor verification, consumer protection guidance, and Wisconsin-specific scam warnings at datcp.wi.gov.

How to Recognize & Avoid Disaster Recovery Scams

Even with trusted resources to contact, it’s still important to know the red flags. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics, emotional urgency, and convincing impersonations to get people to act quickly without verifying details.

Here are some ways to recognize and avoid common disaster-recovery scams:

• FEMA services are always free. No one can “speed up” your application for a fee.
• Verify your insurance coverage. Never rely on a contractor to tell you what your policy covers or sign over your insurance check to them. Always contact your insurance provider directly.
• Beware of “sign now for a discount” deals. Legitimate contractors give you time to review contracts and compare estimates.
• Research contractors before hiring. Ask for their identification, licenses, proof of insurance, and a written contract with clear details (scope of work, costs, start and end dates, and contact information).
• Use safe payment methods. Don’t make the final payment until work is complete and you’re satisfied with the results. Don’t be pressured to pay by wire transfer, gift card, cryptocurrency, or cash. These payment methods are nearly impossible to recover.

Getting Your Financial Life Back on Track

Disasters can disrupt routines, damage documents, and limit access to your accounts. These steps can help you regain control:

• Report lost or damaged cards, so accounts can be frozen and replaced.
• If payments are affected, talk to lenders, utilities, and service providers. Many provide hardship options.
• Replace important documents through the proper agencies
  • Real estate records: County recorder of deeds
  • Mortgage documents: Your lender or mortgage servicer
  • Lease agreements: Your landlord or property manager
  • Car title or driver’s license: Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
  • Birth certificate: County vital records office
  • Social Security card: Local Social Security Administration office

Good People Are Helping, Too!

Even as you stay alert to potential scams, remember that most people in our communities—neighbors, volunteers, local agencies, and trusted businesses—are working hard to help you recover. Don’t let fraudsters make you feel like everyone is out to take advantage; there is real support available.

Heise Heating & Air Conditioning is one local New London business giving back. They’re offering 50% off We Energies‑required inspections for homes and businesses affected by flooding. (We Energies will let you know if you need an inspection.) For more information, you can contact them at 920‑982‑5672 and visit their Facebook page.

The Bottom Line

The safest next step is often the slowest one: pause and take the time to confirm identities, get paperwork, and use trusted resources before you pay or share personal information. Wolf River Community Bank is here to help you in any way that we can. Whether it’s a question, concern, or something feels off, we’ve got your back.

Our Flood Relief Loan Program

And because having your back means stepping up when it matters most, we’ve created a Flood Relief Loan Program to help you recover. It’s built with your recovery in mind, offering:

• $5,000 unsecured loan
• Fixed 4.00% Annual Percentage Rate (APR)* for 36 months
  • Normal credit guidelines apply
• No payments for 90 days
• No origination fee
• Fast approval

*Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is accurate as of April 22, 2026, and subject to change. Payment example: A $5,000 loan amount is 35 monthly payments of $148.61, with a final payment of $148.39. One Flood Relief Loan per household. Offer valid with new personal loans only and subject to normal underwriting criteria. This loan may be changed or discontinued at any time. Offer is available at all WRCB offices. Applications must be received by August 1, 2026.

Learn more about our Flood Relief Loan Program and how we can help you move forward!