Warning of UIF scams
BE ALERT: Fraudsters.
The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has issued warnings to its clients and the wider public about new scams gaining traction on social media.
The UIF said in the latest message circulating, scammers were claiming that an amount of R21 785 is ready to be paid out, but this can only be done once you’ve paid them a “UIF registration and clearance” amount of R298.67.
“Applying for UIF benefits is a free service, and the fund will never require a client to pay for fast-tracking a claim,” UIF said.
To fight the scam, UIF said it has introduced a payment verification process before money is released into the bank accounts of claimants.
“This step has been introduced to prevent fraudulent claims. The verification process will unfortunately delay the release of payment into claimant’s bank account within five or 10 days after the payment is approved.
“However, we wish to assure claimants that efforts are made to fast-track this process so that they won't have to wait for too long,” it added.
The UIF encouraged people to visit their nearest labour centre for free services.
Earlier, the Department of Employment and Labour warned the public to be vigilant after it had noted with concern yet another scam titled “youth employment programme” promising the unemployed false hope.
In it, scammers promise to reward participants in the “programme” with ridiculous stipends.
But, before this could happen, a potential participant in the programme had to pay a deposit fee at one of the retailers and also furnish personal details.