SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Labor Commission is warning workers across the state about a nationwide scam targeting individuals who have filed workers’ compensation claims or experienced workplace injuries.
Officials say scammers are impersonating representatives of the Utah Labor Commission, its Industrial Accidents Division, the U.S. Department of Labor, as well as attorneys and courts. The fraudulent contacts are being made through text messages, phone calls, emails and video calls, often using tactics designed to appear legitimate.
In many cases, victims are told they must pay fees to settle a claim or release benefits.
“We want Utahns to know that this is a scam,” said Eric Olsen, communications director for the Utah Labor Commission. “No legitimate workers’ compensation process requires upfront payment to receive benefits.”
The commission said scammers frequently try to build credibility by posing as judges or attorneys and by using official-looking logos from state and federal agencies.
Warning signs of the scam
The Utah Labor Commission is urging residents to watch for several red flags:
- Emails that do not come from an official @utah.gov address
- Messages that include logos from multiple agencies or jurisdictions
- Requests for upfront payment to receive benefits
- Demands for payment via gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency
- Claims involving attorneys who cannot be verified through the Utah State Bar
What to do
Officials advise anyone contacted by a suspected scammer not to send money or share personal information.
Workers can verify claims or communications directly with the Industrial Accidents Division online, by phone at 801-530-6800, or by email at iaccd@utah.gov.
Suspected fraud should be reported to the Utah Division of Consumer Protection, either online or by phone at 801-530-6601.
The Utah Labor Commission is encouraging all Utahns—especially those in Northern Utah, including Cache Valley and surrounding areas—to remain vigilant and verify any unexpected communication related to workers’ compensation claims.