Press Release September 21, 2001 DC Department of Insurance and Securities Regulation Offers Assistance in the Wake of Terrorist Attacks Washington, DC – The District of Columbia Department of Insurance & Securities Regulation (DISR) is available to assist District consumers with any insurance or securities questions they may have as a result of the September 11 hijackings and attacks on the Pentagon and the World Trade Center. “During catastrophic loss such as those caused by last week’s heinous acts, DISR works closely with insurance companies to ensure that District residents’ claims are handled as quickly as possible,” said DISR Commissioner Lawrence H. Mirel. “DISR is committed to assisting District residents and insurance company representatives have pledged to cooperate with DISR in helping to resolve insurance problems.” Mirel continued, “Unfortunately, during times of tragedy and uncertainty, there are unscrupulous individuals who attempt to prey on the public with insurance and investment scams. The staff at DISR is here to answer any questions and provide information to help consumers and investors get through this difficult time and avoid being defrauded.” DISR encourages consumers to be especially wary of claims of quick profits resulting from the national response to last week’s events. Contact DISR to make sure both the seller and investment are licensed and registered before investing. DISR is providing the following phone numbers to answer questions consumers or investors may have:   Life Insurance (exclusions, coverage, or cancellations), Property and Casualty Insurance (home, auto, and other property insurance) or questions regarding Licensed Insurance Agents and Brokers, call 202-727-8000 Health Insurance (exclusions, coverage, deductibles, co-payments or cancellations), Call 202-442-7780 Questions Regarding Licensed & Registered Securities Broker Dealers and Securities Offerings, call 202-442-7855 If you think you may be a victim of Insurance or Securities Fraud, call 202-442-7752 For general information visit our web site at www.disr.washingtondc.gov. The DC Department of Insurance and Securities Regulation (DISR) has two missions, (1) to provide fair, efficient and fast regulatory supervision of the insurance and securities businesses for the protection of the people of the District of Columbia, and (2) to create conditions that will retain and attract national and international insurance and other financial businesses to the District.