Many County residents have become victims of fraud during the COVID-19 Pandemic;
The Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board is warning Westchester County residents to be on alert after many have reported falling victim to unemployment insurance fraud during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the beginning of the pandemic, New York State has paid more than $65 billion in unemployment benefits, but the Department of Labor (DOL) has identified more than 425,000 of those claims to be fraudulent. Thousands of fraud cases have since been referred to federal prosecutors, who are working with law enforcement on the federal, state and local level to hold people accountable. In response, Westchester Putnam Workforce Development Board is urging County residents to protect themselves against identity theft.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “In Westchester County, criminals have used real identities to illegally collect benefits in the name of individuals who are not unemployed. We are encouraging everyone to take proactive measures, including recognizing the signs of fraud and being careful with passwords and documents that contain personal information. If you believe your identity has been stolen, you must immediately report it to DOL.”
Executive Director of the Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board Thom Kleiner said: “The unemployment insurance benefits the NYS Department of Labor has been able to provide New York State and Westchester County residents during the pandemic has been exceptional. But, unfortunately, fraud has been pervasive, so it’s essential that it be reported as soon as those affected are made aware of it.”
If you believe you are the victim of fraud, report it to the New York State Department of Labor at on.ny.gov/uifraud.