In the past year, the number of fraudulent unemployment claims filed in the United States has dramatically increased. You are encouraged to be aware of the threat and know how to access the resources available. If you are notified by the State of Ohio Department of Job and Family Services or Human Resources at Ohio State that a potential fraudulent claim has been filed in your name, you should take immediate action to protect yourself. You can by visit the Ohio Unemployment Help website and click the red “Report Identity Theft” button.
There are some other helpful resources: Ohio State’s EAP (Employee Assistance Program) provider offers Identify Theft Protection and Recovery Assistance (see flyer here). An EAP consultation may recommend filing a police report regarding the fraudulent claim and/or add any “identity theft protection” service available on your credit and bank cards. Also, the Consumer Protection Section of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office contains helpful information on a wide range of topics.
You can read more on the HR website about this fraud and how to protect yourself.