Sunshine Sentinel

Despite Florida ending its federal unemployment insurance in June, cases of fraud continue to be a concern in the state. 

On Sept. 6, authorities arrested the 10th man from Florida that is connected to a nationwide unemployment fraud scheme, WPEC reported. The investigation into the fraudulent claiming of benefits began last December, and this specific ring is connected to an estimated $500,000.

“I am disgusted that anyone would exploit the very real and devastating circumstances of struggling Americans to line their pockets," Florida Attorney General Ashely Moody said, according to WPEC. "Thanks to the work of local law enforcement, these criminals are behind bars and will be held accountable by my Statewide Prosecutors for their despicable crimes. Let this be a warning to anyone involved in a similar scheme: if you stole money from the government, it’s a good idea to consider giving it back, now."

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity is cracking down on suspicious activity, according to Emilie Oglesby, the department's director of communications and external affairs. 

"The Department implemented an alert system to notify Reemployment Assistance claimants when banking information or PIN numbers have been changed in CONNECT," Oglesby told Sunshine Sentinel. "The notification will come from alerts@noreply.deo.myflorida.com, an official DEO email address. If claimants believe someone has stolen their identity, gained access to their account, and are now locked out, they should report this through the Reemployment Assistance Help Center." 

Additionally, a new law, unanimously passed this spring, increased Florida's protections against fraud, such as banning someone from profiting by lying about access to or availability of personal protective equipment, the Associated Press reported.