Many insects are not what they seem to be. 
This (above) is a red-headed ash borer (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae
Neoclytus acuminatus), but it looks like a paper wasp (below).
The red headed ash borer is not really a menace. Unless you are a recently cut or dead ash tree, they will not harm you. They have evolved to resemble paper wasps and other stinging insects, which protects them from predators. They might be found in homes in late winter or early spring when they are brought in with firewood. My friend found this one last week inside of a local business.
