Public warned of UIF fraudster

THE Department of Employment and Labour has warned the public of an individual who is allegedly posing as its employee, and unlawfully charging R200 for assistance with Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) claims.

In other news: Durban mayor warns of scam using his name

In a statement, the department said the individual, identified as “Sharleen Chetty”, falsely claims she is an employee of the department that helps thousands of clients daily with their UIF claims for a fee of R200.

“The individual also uses an email address that is similar to those of the department’s officials.

In other news: Durban councillor’s details used in job scam

“The department wishes to reiterate that assistance with all its services like the UIF and Compensation Fund claims is free.”

The department said it was illegal for any agency or person purporting to act on behalf of an applicant to charge a fee for submitting an application for UIF benefits.

“Clients are, therefore, urged not to contact the individual or pay any person for assistance with UIF claims.”

The matter has been referred to the UIF’s Risk Management, Anti-Corruption and Integrity Management for investigation.

* Notice: Coronavirus reporting at Caxton Local Media aims to combat fake news

Dear reader, As your local news provider, we have the duty of keeping you factually informed on Covid-19 developments. As you may have noticed, mis- and disinformation (also known as “fake news”) is circulating online. Caxton Local Media is determined to filter through the masses of information doing the rounds and to separate truth from untruth in order to keep you adequately informed. Local newsrooms follow a strict pre-publication fact-checking protocol. A national task team has been established to assist in bringing you credible news reports on Covid-19. Readers with any comments or queries may contact National Group Editor Irma Green (irma@caxton.co.za) or Legal Adviser Helene Eloff (helene@caxton.co.za).

Do you want to receive news alerts via Telegram? Send us a message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 060 532 5535. You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. PLEASE NOTE: If you have signed up for our news alerts you need to save the Berea Mail Telegram number as a contact to your phone, otherwise you will not receive our alerts Here’s where you can download Telegram on Android or Apple