Oregon Warns of Scam Targeting Spanish-Speaking Workers' Comp Claimants

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The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services is warning of a scam targeting Spanish-speaking workers' compensation claimants. Scammers are contacting injured workers, claiming they need to appear at an online workers' comp hearing, and then demanding payment to receive their benefits. The state says they will never ask for money to provide legitimate benefits, and urges workers to verify the legitimacy of any communications before sending personal information or funds.

Why it matters

This scam preys on vulnerable Spanish-speaking workers who may be unfamiliar with the workers' compensation system, putting them at risk of losing money and delaying access to the benefits they are entitled to. It highlights the need for greater outreach and education to protect injured workers, especially those from underserved communities.

The details

According to the state, scammers will contact workers by phone, email, social media, or video calls, and try to convince them to appear at an online workers' compensation hearing. Sometimes, the workers who attend the fake hearings will receive an order in their favor that appears to be official, but they are then told they have to pay to receive their benefits or settlement. The scam has also been reported in other states like Idaho and Montana.

• The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services issued the warning on February 13, 2026.

What’s next

Workers who believe they have been targeted by this scam are advised to contact the Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers to verify the legitimacy of any communications they have received.