Scammers causing even more delays for Michigan unemployment system

Some Michigan residents having accounts put on hold due to scammers

DETROIT – Scammers targeting Michigan residents who have legitimately filed for unemployment are causing even more delays in the system as officials are forced to investigate.

These scams are affecting thousands of Michiganders who have filed for unemployment, and many others who haven’t filed.

READ: New problem keeps more Michigan residents from getting unemployment checks

The problem has gotten so serious that some people who have filed legitimately are having their accounts put on hold as the Unemployment Insurance Agency investigates.

It happened to Michigan resident Jennifer Zoltowski, who said she is no longer receiving her benefits. Like thousands of others, she said she doesn’t know when her hold will be lifted.

Scammers are also working to steal the identities of people who haven’t filed for unemployment.

Former Michigan Lt. Gov. Brian Calley announced on Twitter that he was targeted. Some WDIV employees were, too.

Our WDIV human resources team received letters that appeared to be from the unemployment agency about employees who never filed. Now they’re worried their personal information might be in the wrong hands.


About the Authors

Hank Winchester is Local 4’s Consumer Investigative Reporter and the head of WDIV’s “Help Me Hank” Consumer Unit. Hank works to solve consumer complaints, reveal important recalls and track down thieves who have ripped off people in our community.

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.

Recommended Videos