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Using Facebook to stop disability fraud

White Houses budget explores social media use
Posted at 7:36 AM, Mar 12, 2019
and last updated 2019-03-12 10:47:35-04

LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The White House has proposed a new plan that would allow the government to view personal social media posts in an attempt to bust people who are faking disabilities to receive government benefits.

That's according to the New York Times.

For example, if someone is out on disability with a foot injury but posts to social media that they are out hiking, the government could use any photos or "check ins" posted against them.

Critics say, photos shared online might be old and that social media posts are not always reliable evidence of a person’s current condition.

The New York Times reports, Social Security officials are also considering other changes that could make it more difficult for people to qualify for benefits.

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