Insights in the Rise of Unemployment Fraud

Did you know between February 2020 and May 2021, NortonLifeLock observed a 29,600% spike in the number of unemployment insurance fraud claims? These claims are people who have requested identity theft restoration services due to fraudsters stealing their unemployment benefits or filing for benefits in their name.  
 
What surprised me was when a fraudster steals someone’s unemployment benefits, the victim usually doesn’t know right away. This often leaves victims unable to access the money they need to live on and pay bills. In some cases, victims were employed, and fraudsters applied for unemployment benefits anyway, generating additional taxable income for victims. 
 
That’s why we were happy to be joined by Michael Wisehart, director of Arizona Department of Economic Security, and Eva Velasquez, CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center, to address the impact of unemployment fraud during a webinar on June 22.  
 
During the webinar, we also discussed signs to watch out for to help consumers identify if they have been compromised and shared resources to help victims of this form of fraud. 
 
You can watch the full recording below. 

At NortonLifeLock, we will continue to work with state and federal governments to approve processes and procedures to help victims recover quickly in the hopes of minimizing negative impacts on their lives.   

Editorial note: Our articles provide educational information for you. NortonLifeLock offerings may not cover or protect against every type of crime, fraud, or threat we write about. Our goal is to increase awareness about cyber safety. Please review complete Terms during enrollment or setup. Remember that no one can prevent all identity theft or cybercrime, and that LifeLock does not monitor all transactions at all businesses. 

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