The U.S. Small Business Administration urges those applying for disaster assistance in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita to be on the alert to scam artists posing as federal officials offering help, while trying to take advantage of those facing the daunting challenge of rebuilding their lives.

The federal government has set up a Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline.

Residents and business owners who have knowledge of fraud can call 1-866-720-5721, send a fax to 1-703-604-8567, or email the hot line at katrinafraud@dodig.mil .

Those without internet access can write to: Hurricane Relief Hotline, Washington, D.C. 20301-1900