eBay data-matching "successful" in targeting social security fraud

simonwang

The Government has advised that a pilot program which matched Centrelink records against eBay users would become a permanent part of its compliance system from May this year. The Government reported that the program identified some people were claiming social security payments while running what it considered to be a successful online business. It said the program identified more than $800,000 in debts.

The Minister for Human Services said the program "isn't aimed at people selling a few second-hand clothes or other items – the program identifies people who earn large amounts from eBay, while also claiming support from the Government". Senator Kim Carr said the pilot program had identified about 100 cases that warranted further investigation by the Department. "About 25 debts have already been raised, with the average debt amount about $32,000 – roughly double the average debt for other types of investigations over the past 2 financial years," he said. Some cases have been referred to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions

http://www.mhs.gov.au/media/medi ... trial_a_success.php

HomerSimpson

twins7

Great! Another data-matching system. Looks like the government agencies are finally talking to each other...