In a recent tweet, the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) cautioned clients about social media scams where individuals are posing as UIF officials and changing a fee for expediting claims.
Pointing out the red flag, the UIF said that applying for UIF benefits is a free service and the fund will never require a client to pay for fast-tracking a claim.
Thus, all clients have been urged to be careful and not to fall victim to fraud on social media.
“If you are uncertain, please visit the nearest labour centre for free services. Do not be a victim, say no to scammers,” stated the UIF.
Amid numerous incidents of fraud and scamming, the Department of Labour launched a fraud hotline for all UIF fraud-related matters where whistle-blowers have been encouraged to report any fraudulent activity suspected.
Furthermore, should clients receive a call or email communication from any individual offering services in exchange for money they must call the department or report them on the fraud hotline.
The contact details for reporting UIF fraud-related are as follows:
- Toll-Free Number 0800 212 799
- SMS Call-Back 30916
- Email Address: uif@thehotline.co.za
- Fax 2 Email: 0867 26 1681
The reporting platforms are available 24/7 throughout the year and assistance is available for all 11 official languages.
