Scam Spotlight: Worker’s Compensation Fraud Scheme

The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) has alerted the public about a possible multi-state fraud scheme targeting injured workers, in which fraudsters trick people into participating in fake worker’s compensation hearings. This leads injured workers to believe they are awarded money but are now responsible for paying fees to finalize the case.

The scams primarily target Spanish-speaking workers, but anyone can be a target, and claim to come from fake agencies with names like the “Workers’ Compensation Board.” They usually arrive as emails from domains like “@WorkCompCourt.org.” Consumers are told to attend an online hearing using a video call platform, and this fake hearing involves a judge, bailiff, and attorneys. It can be very convincing.

Always verify information. The real Wisconsin Worker’s Compensation Division schedules hearings only through written letters, and all phone numbers from the Department of Workforce Development will have Wisconsin area codes. If someone has received a suspicious message about a worker’s compensation hearing, they should contact a real DWD worker’s compensation specialist at 608-266-1340 or visit dwd.wisconsin.gov/wc/fraud for more information. Consumers who have been scammed should contact DATCP right away.