Skip to Content

Tax season could expose unemployment fraud cases

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

This tax season experts are warning the public about signs that they've been victims of identity or tax fraud with a pandemic-related twist.

CNN reported Wednesday that some people are receiving tax form 1099-G in the mail, which is meant for people claiming unemployment benefits, without having claimed unemployment benefits. Scammers have defrauded taxpayers for billions of dollars with unemployment fraud, including claiming benefits in someone else's name via identity theft.

Other tax scams are also rampant this time of year.

Michelle Gleba with the Better Business Bureau said it's particularly important to safeguard personal and financial information during tax season.

"Don't leave sensitive information out in the open in your home, get in the habit of shredding sensitive information you no longer need, and always be suspicious of unsolicited communication," she said.

If you think you are a victim of identity theft, the Better Business Bureau recommends taking steps to act quickly.

  • Report the fraud
  • Immediately review bank and credit card statements
  • Check with your credit bureau to see if there are inquiries or accounts you didn't authorize.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, if you are suspicious your identity has been stolen, close any new accounts in your name, report a misused social security number, and if need be replace any government issued IDs.

The Better Business Bureau deals with scammers who are always evolving their techniques.

"We are going through a global pandemic and there is a lot going on, so scammers are going to look at every which way they can take advantage of that situation," Gleba said.

Article Topic Follows: Money

Jump to comments ↓

Author Profile Photo

Zola Crowder

Zola Crowder joined the ABC 17 News team as a multimedia journalist in June 2020 after graduating from the University of Missouri with a broadcast journalism degree. Before reporting at ABC 17, Zola was a reporter at KOMU where she learned to cover politics, crime, education, economics and more.

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

ABC 17 News is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content