The state Division of Workforce Services said Wednesday that it has found an "uptick" in fraudulent unemployment claims but gave no details.
"Over the past few weeks, Arkansas, as well as several other states, has recognized an increase in reports filed for fraudulent unemployment claims and identity theft," the division, which is part of the Department of Commerce, said in a news release.
"Victims of fraud often discover they have been impacted when they receive a notice from [the Workforce Services Division] stating that a claim has been filed under their name," the agency said. "It appears that many individuals self-reporting these fraudulent claims have been victims of identity theft at some point in the past-- some up to 20 years ago. There are also cases where individuals have been notified by their employer that a false application for benefits has been filed under their name."
Reports of possible fraud can be filed with the division on its website, by telephone at (501) 682-1058, or by email at [email protected]