$586 Million Available For Ohio Fraud Victims

CLEVELAND, OH — Ohioans that were victims of fraud schemes that saw them wire money to scammers using Western Union's wire service may be eligible for some compensation from a $586 million fund held by the U.S. Department of Justice's victim asset recovery program.

The fund is part of a multi-state settlement that was announced in January. Individuals that were involved in fraud-based wire transfers between Jan. 1, 2004 and Jan. 19, 2017 are eligible for compensation.

“It’s not often that scam victims have a chance to recover some of their money, so we want people to know about this opportunity,” Attorney General Mike DeWine said in a statement. “If you think you’re eligible, file a claim.”

More than 500,000 Ohioans will receive claim forms in the mail. Those individuals reported a fraud to either Western Union or to the Ohio Attorney General's Office. The form will contain instructions on how to file a claim.

Individuals that don't receive claim forms, but believe they've been a victim of a fraud scheme should visit www.WesternUnionRemission.com or call 844-319-2124 for details on filing a claim.

All claim forms must be submitted by Feb. 12, 2018.

The multi-state settlement with Western Union included 49 states and the District of Columbia. Western Union is also required to institute an anti-fraud program. The program includes, according to DeWine's office, the following measures:

• Anti-fraud warnings on send forms that consumers use to wire money;
• Mandatory and appropriate training and education for Western Union’s agents about fraud-induced wire transfers;
• Heightened anti-fraud procedures when warranted by circumstances such as increased fraud complaints;
• Due diligence checks on Western Union agents who process money transfers;
• Monitoring of Western Union agent activity related to prevention of fraud-induced money transfers;
• Prompt and appropriate disciplinary action against Western Union agents who fail to follow required protocols concerning anti-fraud measures.

“In the fight against fraud, prevention and detection are critical,” DeWine said at the time. “This settlement includes safeguards that will help protect consumers and their money.”

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