DLIR Issues ‘Urgent’ Message on New Unemployment Scam

A new unemployment scam is on the rise in Hawai´i.

The Department of Labor & Industrial Relations (DLIR) released a warning on Thursday, April 22, to Hawai´i residents about fraudulent text messaging and email phishing scams requesting that claimants click on a link. These links allow those attempting to commit fraud access to personal claimant information if the claimant responds.

If you have clicked on these links and provided personal information, your UI account may have been compromised. If so, call the UI Call Center at (808) 762-5751 or 5752 and select option 4. You may also report fraud to the National Center for Disaster Fraud by calling (866) 720-5721. 

“Sophisticated cyber criminals are not only filing fraudulent claims but also attempting to break into existing accounts and stealing benefits awarded to bona fide claimants,” said DLIR Director Anne Perreira-Eustaquio. “It is really important to know this is happening here in Hawai´i and it’s affecting our local community. We strongly urge claimants not to click on these links.”

DLIR said in a statement Thursday that it is working with the US Department of Labor (USDOL) to fight UI fraud and stop scammers. For tips to protect yourself from fraud, go online.

For more information about unemployment insurance and other labor issues visit the FAQs online.

The DLIR does not have any social media accounts except Twitter, and the only portal for unemployment insurance benefits is at can be found here.