Austrian reveals 'tricks' to exploit AMS benefits
One beneficiary of the Austrian Labor Market Service (AMS) revealed what he describes as widespread violations of the social welfare system. Mark, who is approaching sixty, says he strictly adheres to the laws and reports any short trips abroad, but he believes that many others exploit loopholes to avoid work. His statements come after a public outcry sparked by a woman allegedly using AMS funds to live for several months in Jamaica.
Mark told the newspaper 'Heute' that he reports all details to the AMS, including his visits to the dentist in Hungary, while many other beneficiaries openly ignore the rules. He explained that during his attendance at AMS training courses, he was ridiculed for his commitment, adding that some unemployed people travel abroad right after their appointments with the AMS and return before the next appointment to avoid being discovered.
He explained the methods used to conceal these trips, such as accessing AMS accounts using Austrian VPNs, avoiding public Wi-Fi to prevent location tracking, and buying bus tickets directly from drivers to avoid leaving a payment record. He added that some people, especially those with foreign backgrounds, regularly travel to their home countries without notifying the authorities.
During his sessions with the AMS, Mark says he noticed a culture among some participants aimed at deliberately avoiding work. He explained that out of 16 participants, only three were Austrian while the rest were of immigrant backgrounds. He expressed his frustration that older job seekers like him face significant difficulties in finding a job, while some families receive substantial benefits. He believes that the system is financially unsustainable and will eventually collapse.
In a statement to the newspaper 'Heute', the Austrian Employment Office AMS emphasized that it uses all available means to prevent the misuse of financial benefits and that it closely collaborates with the Social Benefits Fraud Team (SOLBE) of the Federal Criminal Police Office, confirming that fraud in social benefits is considered a criminal offense.