Could Social Media Lead To A Worker’s Compensation Denial?

January 1, 2019
By Glauber Berenson Vego

Most people use social media these days. Often social media accounts become almost like a public journal of daily happens and life moments. While social media can be a great way to connect with your friends in California and beyond, it can also spell trouble if you file a workers’ compensation claim. According to Insurance Provider Group, investigators may use your social media postings and other public posts containing information about you to deny your workers’ compensation claim.

Investigators have the job of ensuring you are telling the truth about your injuries and the extent of your disability. In the past, they might check up on your in person, but now, thanks to the internet and social media, all they need is a computer to validate your claims. If, for example, you post yourself on vacation waterskiing when you made a claim that you were unable to walk, this is a good piece of evidence against you. Furthermore, other people’s posts about you may also provide usable information.

The investigation is not just to disprove you are injured. It also verifies information in your claim. Investigators may check up on your personal details through looking at your social media profile. They make check alibis and verify your location as well. It is a good way to prevent fraud.

Keep in mind that investigations should always be ethical. This means they only use information and photos that are public. In addition, an investigator should never try to friend or follow you with the purpose of doing so to further his or her investigation. This information is for education and is not legal advice.