Be Aware of Scams – Protect Yourself Against Fraud

Sample Phishing Email

Attention UI Claimants: Beware of Phishing Emails! If you receive an email claiming there is "sensitive correspondence waiting in your RI DLT UI Online Inbox," DO NOT click any links or open attachments in the email. This message did not originate from DLT and is a fraudulent attempt to steal your personal information. 

For more information on what the email looks like, visit this webpage: dlt.ri.gov/be-aware-scams

Stock image of fraudulent text message

DLT is recently experiencing an increase in fraudulent claim activities where people attempt to gain access to active UI/TDI claims or file new claims using stolen personal information so they can fraudulently obtain benefits. 

If you believe someone has gained access to your claim, please contact the UI/TDI Fraud Unit at 401-462-1522.   

Scam Red Flags

  • Asking for your UI Online login information via email or text message 
  • Asking for payment to use our services 
  • A text or email saying that your claim is on hold 
  • Texts and emails include grammatical and spelling errors 
  • Asking for your banking information over the phone or via voicemail 

Common Scam Techniques

Email and Text Message Scams

We will not ask you for personal or private information or details about your bank or credit card accounts by voicemail, email, or text message. If you receive an email, voicemail, or text message and you are unsure if it came from DLT, contact us at (401) 415-1522. 

Fake Website Phishing Scams

Scammers are sending fake unemployment websites in phishing emails and text messages. These links take you to a fake website that looks like the real thing. The fake website asks for your personal information, such as your Social Security number, date of birth, and bank account number. This information can be used by scammers to commit identity theft or compromise your real UI Online account or other claims. 

Example Scams

The Department of Labor and Training has recently become aware of a phishing scam in which a fraudulent website was created to replicate the Rhode Island UI Online platform. The goal of this scam was to obtain the login credentials and private personal information of UI Online users. 

The scammer sent out the following text message claiming the recipient’s UI claim was on hold with a link to the fraudulent website: 

Phishing scam text

The DLT strongly advises all UI Online users to delete and block this text message and not click on the link. The DLT has confirmed that the link in the text message leads to a fraudulent website that is not affiliated with the RI DLT UI Online platform. 

How to stay safe

DLT reminds all Rhode Islanders to exercise caution when providing personal information online. Take the following measures to protect yourself: 

  • Never share sensitive information via email or social media, such as your SSN or banking information. 
  • If you receive an email that seems to originate from DLT, ensure it is from a dlt.ri.gov email address before responding or clicking any links. 
  • Only fill out forms related to DLT services on secure government (.gov) websites. 
  • When in doubt, check the official DLT website for up-to-date, accurate information or contact us directly. 
  • If you visited a fraudulent website and believe that your personal information may be at risk, visit identitytheft.gov. 

Unemployment Call Center

(401) 415-6772

TDI Call Center

(401) 462 8420

UI/TDI Fraud Unit

(401) 462-1522