Hot Topics     Home and Family    

District Attorney David Hoovler Warns Citizens About Fraudulent Claims for Unemployment Benefits



False Claims Made Using Citizens’ Social Security Numbers

Fraudulent Claims for Unemployment Benefits


Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler, on February 26, 2021, issued a warning to Orange County residents about fraudulent claims for unemployment benefits, claims made by fraudsters using other people’s social security numbers. Orange County has recently been seeing an uptick in that type of fraudulent claim.

Frequently, scammers come into possession of other’s social security numbers, and use those numbers to file claims for unemployment benefits, among other things. As a result, aside from fraudulent unemployment claims, scammers often have fraudulent credit cards issued to them in the victims’ names, scammers can raid victims bank accounts, victims can receive bills for goods and services that they did not purchase, and a whole host of other financial consequences may occur to victims.

If you believe that a scammer has fraudulently filed for unemployment benefits in your name, notify your employer, and notify the New York State Department of Labor’s Fraud Unit online at webapps.labor.ny.gov/dews/ui/fraud/report-fraud.shtm

In addition, if you believe that you are a victim of identity theft, you can report that to the Federal Trade Commission online at identitytheft.gov/

“The unscrupulous will stop at nothing to make an illegal buck,” said District Attorney Hoovler, “especially during this COVID-19 pandemic. Identity theft remains a significant problem, whether it shows up in unemployment insurance fraud or in other types of scams. I urge all of Orange County’s residents to keep a close eye on their financial matters, so that they can be sure they aren’t victims of identity theft. Check your credit reports regularly. Pay attention to any mail you get from financial institutions or from the government, mail that might be a red flag that your identity has been stolen. And, above all, don’t share personal information with anyone you don’t know and trust, especially online. Taking care with your finances is an important way to help minimize the risk of identity theft.”

Editor’s Note: Based on information posted on Facebook, the issues identified by the Orange County District Attorney, is a countrywide issue.  



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • Tips to help students be better writers

    Writing and communication skills are essential to success

    No matter students' chosen career paths, writing and communication skills are essential to success. Whether a student identifies as a “math kid,” a “sports kid,” or even a “reading kid,” writing doesn’t always come naturally read more »
  • Safe sharps disposal

    Keeping students healthy at school

    Back to school can be overwhelming for students and families. With new classes, new friends and sometimes new schools, students have a lot to balance. Additionally, changing routine can be challenging for students managing health conditions, including allergies, diabetes and others that require using and safely disposing of needles, syringes, or epinephrine autoinjectors at school. read more »
  • Smart starts for a healthy heart

    Improve hydration, skip added sugars with better-for-you beverages

    How you start your morning can impact the rest of your day. If you want to incorporate healthier choices into your morning routine, try a concept known as “habit stacking.” read more »
  • Debunking 5 common myths about root canal treatment

    If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you may be dreading the procedure or even trying to find a way out of it. The good news? Today’s root canal treatment is nothing like the myths you may see circulating the internet, which are misinformed and simply false. read more »
  • Celebrate your 4-legged friend

    3 ways to give back during National Dog Month

    While most dog owners need little reason to celebrate their furry family members, National Dog Month provides a perfect opportunity to show pets a little extra love. read more »
  • What you (and your child) should know for kindergarten

    6 habits to start right now

    Starting kindergarten is a major milestone that sets the stage for future learning. Ensuring children are well-equipped to enter kindergarten sets them up for a successful school year in the short term and an academic career in the long term. read more »
  • Smooth transition

    3 tips to prepare for the new school year

    Whether your child is starting school for the first time or simply returning to a new grade level, preparations for the school year can feel overwhelming for both students and parents. read more »
  • Top reasons to consider a steel roof for your home

    Steel offers many features that align with sustainable living

    Steel is increasingly becoming the go-to material used for residential roofing. According to industry experts, steel offers a range of design advantages and features that align with sustainable living. read more »
  • 6 steps to help teens plan financially for the future

    It’s never too early to start saving

    For teenagers, retirement may seem like a lifetime away, but it’s never too early to start saving for the future. Because financial habits can be created at a young age, the sooner kids begin to save and learn about investing, the less likely they’ll face worries about money when they eventually stop working. read more »
  • Safety and scam prevention tips for students heading back to campus

    Prevent identity theft and other safety risks

    As many students begin heading to college, vocational or graduate school programs, the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is sharing targeted scam prevention tips that can help students start the new academic year safely. read more »