The 4 steps of identity theft fueling massive COVID unemployment fraud
From data breaches to the dark web, fraudsters are exploiting unprecedented opportunities The COVID-19 pandemic’s economic fallout has threatened the livelihoods of millions of people. However, it has been a windfall for criminals who take advantage of those who need help the most. Coming off historically low unemployment rates, unemployment insurance (UI) agencies found themselves understaffed and ill-prepared for the claims tsunami caused by the pandemic. Additionally, the CARES Act loosened controls in order to quickly get money out the door. While this was important for urgently getting assistance to those in need, it exposed agencies to fraud perpetrated by organized criminal networks at a scale never seen before, overwhelming fraud prevention efforts. How identity theft is fueling unemployment fraud One of the most common tactics of fraudsters is the use of stolen identity credentials such as names, Social Security numbers and addresses to file claims and open accounts on ano
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