Scam involving Pennsylvania unemployment benefits on the rise

PITTSBURGH — The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry put out an alert on social media, warning that unemployment phishing attempts are at an all-time high.

“Throughout the pandemic, scammers have really been capitalizing on the whole situation,” explained Caitlin Driscoll of the Better Business Bureau.

She said that fake texts and emails have been going out to people in the state saying something is wrong with a claim, and includes a link to get their personal info.

“So these messages typically require you to provide personal information may be under the guise of of confirming your identity, or they may even provide a link they want you to click on which leads to a scam website or form that wants your Social Security numbe,r other personal details, sometimes even your bank account information for setting up payments.”

The state also says to be aware of social media posts that provide assistance via email or direct links.

Driscoll says it’s best to contact the unemployment compensation office directly, through the department’s verified methods of contact. If you have clicked on a suspicious link, take swift action.

The Deptartment of Labor and Industry is encouraging Pennsylvanians to remain vigilant.

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