Unemployment Debit Cards Targeted by Scammers

The most recent case of the unemployment scams was reported November 2 by the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency. The agency was notified by two people who said they received a text messages asking them to verify their unemployment insurance debit card PIN number. The texts asked one of the individuals to text their PIN number and asked the other to call a number to verify their PIN number, according to a statement.

The text or cell phone messages have also occurred in other states, including New York, Missouri and Rhode Island. In New York, a press release was distributed on October 22 regarding the debit card scams. The New York Department of Labor indicated that both texts and cell phone messages were aimed at those who have unemployment benefits applied to the JP Morgan/Chase card. The messages were similar to those received in Michigan:

"The Department of Labor has limited or deactivated your benefit card starting with (first 4-6 digits of card). Call: 4052373821 to reactivate." If they call the number, they are asked for their full card number and PIN. Once the scammer has that information, the victim's account can be accessed and funds stolen.

JP Morgan/Chase, the bank that issues debit cards that unemployment recipients use to receive benefits. The states involved in this scam are working to find those responsible for this scam. The Bank has already taken steps to address the situation. Only those who use debit cards to receive unemployment insurance benefits have been victimized so far.

Cheryl Phillips
HULIQ.com