A number of fraud cases have developed in the wake of the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) doing what it can to assist as many people as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has caused a significant number of people to lose their jobs. Individuals throughout Western New York have received letters concerning unemployment benefits from the NYSDOL, despite never having made unemployment claims.
NYSDOL is still developing a comprehensive set of instructions that it will make public for those wondering what steps to take should they receive such a letter. Until that time, citizens are encouraged to stay vigilant and monitor their mail. Those who notice anything suspicious coming from the NYSDOL in the mail (particularly when they have not claimed unemployment), should report it to the Fraud Department by calling toll-free at 1-888-598-2077 or visiting https://labor.ny.gov/secure/fraud/report-fraud.shtm. Citizens are also encouraged to email the FBI branch in Buffalo if they have received a letter or related debit card contact at rochester.bf@fbi.gov or call the number of the New York State Police Troop A Headquarters at 585-344-6200.
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