---
title: Unemployment Fraud Prevention
description: Many don't realize they've been the victim of unemployment fraud until it's too late. Be aware of suspicious activity and essential notifications.
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# Unemployment Fraud Prevention

Posted by [Busey Bank](https://moneymatters.busey.com/author/busey-bank) on Apr 6, 2022 8:37:25 AM

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Unemployment insurance fraud rates have exploded during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to additional concerns of identity theft.![An individual's fingers shown using a calculator, while they're also holding a pen.](https://moneymatters.busey.com/hs-fs/hubfs/MoneyMattersTech5.jpg?width=600&name=MoneyMattersTech5.jpg)

According to the [FBI](https://www.fbi.gov/news/pressrel/press-releases/fbi-sees-spike-in-fraudulent-unemployment-insurance-claims-filed-using-stolen-identities), many unemployment insurance victims do not know they have been affected until they file for jobless insurance benefits, receive a notification from the state unemployment insurance agency, receive an IRS Form 1099-G showing the benefits collected from unemployment insurance, or get notified by their employer that a claim has been filed while the victim is still employed. Surprisingly, **individuals don’t have to be out of work to fall victim to unemployment fraud.**

**Preventative Monitoring**

You should always be aware of suspicious activity that could indicate fraudulent activity—including **telephone calls, text messages, letters, websites and emails**—requesting personal or sensitive information, such as your social security number. Also, be wary of attachments and embedded links within emails, particularly ones from unfamiliar senders.

The [FBI](https://www.fbi.gov/news/pressrel/press-releases/fbi-sees-spike-in-fraudulent-unemployment-insurance-claims-filed-using-stolen-identities) also advises individuals to beware of suspicious activities such as:

- Receiving communications regarding unemployment insurance forms when you have not applied for unemployment benefits.
- Unauthorized transactions on your bank or credit card statements related to unemployment benefits.
- Any fees involved in filing or qualifying for unemployment insurance.
- Unsolicited inquires related to unemployment benefits.
- Fictitious websites and social media pages mimicking those of government agencies.

**Essential Notifications**

If you believe you are the victim of fraud, consider the following:

- File a report with your local police department to initiate a legal record of the fraud.
- Contact your credit bureau to examine your credit for any fraudulent activities and file a fraud alert.
- Notify the IRS to avoid any future potential unemployment payments.
- Inform the Social Security Administration.
- File a report with the Federal Trade Commission, which also provides resources for identity theft victims.

Victims of fraudulent unemployment insurance claims are not liable for repaying any potential benefits received. **Don’t delay, act immediately** to reduce the probability of difficulties filing for legitimate claims in the future and larger issues related to identity theft.

 Topics: [Personal](https://moneymatters.busey.com/tag/personal), [Fraud](https://moneymatters.busey.com/tag/fraud)

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