DWD Warns of Sophisticated Email Scams Targeting Injured Workers
MADISON – The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) is alerting the public about a possible multi-state fraud scheme targeting injured workers in which fraudsters trick individuals into participating in fake worker’s compensation hearings, leading the injured worker to believe they are awarded money but are responsible for paying fees to finalize the case.
The scams, which target primarily Spanish-speaking individuals, reportedly originate from fake agencies using names such as the “Workers’ Compensation Board” with emails usually coming from “.org” domains such as “@workcompcourt.org”. Victims are instructed to attend an “online worker’s compensation hearing” on a video conferencing platform such as WhatsApp, Zoom, or Teams. Victims are led to believe they are participating in a legitimate legal proceeding related to their worker’s compensation claim. The fraudulent hearing involves a judge, bailiff, and attorneys.
Workers, employers, and insurance carriers should be aware that the Wisconsin Worker’s Compensation Division schedules hearings only through written letters. All attorneys handling worker’s compensation cases in Wisconsin must be licensed to practice law in Wisconsin. All telephone numbers on correspondence from the Department of Workforce Development will have Wisconsin area codes.
DWD encourages individuals who have received suspicious communication to contact a worker’s compensation specialist at (608) 266-1340. For more information on how to recognize and report fraudulent activities related to worker’s compensation, visit https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/wc/fraud/.
If you think you have been a victim of identity theft, contact the Consumer Protection Hotline immediately for help protecting and recovering your identity at (800) 422-7128, DATCPHotline@Wisconsin.gov, or online at datcp.wi.gov.
ABOUT DWD
Wisconsin’s Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin’s diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker’s Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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