Unemployment Insurance Fraud

As you may be aware, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts' Department of Unemployment Assistance ("DUA") has published advisories indicating that criminal enterprises, as part of a nationwide unemployment benefits fraud scheme, are using stolen personal information to fraudulently file unemployment claims. The criminal enterprises essentially steal the identities of working people and file claims for benefits using stolen data. While the City does not receive the information filed at the DUA, the DUA frequently notifies the City of claims filed on behalf of current City employees.

If you believe someone is using your identity to falsely claim unemployment benefits, you should promptly contact the DUA. The City will report all suspicious claims to the DUA, but both the DUA and the City's unemployment consultant suggest that employees take the following actions on their own to prevent further losses and harm:

1. Notify the Unemployment Insurance Fraud Unit: by phone at 877-626-6800; or via Online Reporting Form.
2. Report the fraudulent activity to your local police department (in your city or town of residence). You may need to file a copy of the police report with creditors and credit agencies.
3. Review the Federal Trade Commission Website, which provides information, guidance and links to ensure the security of identity and credit.
4. Change passwords on your email, banking and other personal accounts.
5. Report the fraudulent activity to credit card companies, banks and other financial institutions where you do business. Tell them you are a victim of identity theft and ask them to put a fraud alert on your account.
6. Review your credit report. Contact the 3 major credit reporting agencies to place a fraud alert, request a credit freeze and dispute any fraudulent transactions: (1) Equifax: 800-349-9960; (2) Experian: 888-397-3742; or (3) TransUnion: 888-909-8872.

If you feel the need to ensure the validity of any email please call the Human Resources Department 508-612-0067 or email any questions to Unemployment@worcesterma.gov.

Additional Resources

• For more information on actions you should take if you believe that you are a victim of unemployment fraud through identity theft - Mass.gov.
• More Info About Unemployment Fraud in MA