If you receive disability benefits through workers’ compensation or Social Security, and you have an account on Facebook or Twitter, some people are looking online for any indication that you are not legitimately disabled. Investigators and claims adjusters look for pictures and words that describe you as fit and healthy, or at least as more fit and healthy than you claim to be.
For example, if a spinal injury keeps you from working, a photograph of you winning a weightlifting competition or building a tree house will throw a lot of doubt on your claim. However, it might be a photo that’s five or ten years old, even if you only uploaded it last week. An online visitor can see only the date the photo was posted.
Your online presence is there for all the world to see, and information obtained online can definitely be used against you in a court of law. If you have a pending claim for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration or workers’ compensation, use sense and caution on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Adjust your privacy settings and be extra-choosy about which photographs you share. Don’t “brag” online about receiving workers’ comp or Social Security benefits. You simply have to assume that if you receive benefits, someone is occasionally monitoring your social media accounts.
Why Online Activity Matters in Workers’ Comp and SSD Cases
If you receive disability benefits through workers’ compensation or Social Security, your social media activity can be reviewed as part of your claim. Investigators and insurance adjusters may look for photos, posts, or comments that suggest you are more physically capable than your claim indicates.
For example, a photo showing physical activity, like lifting heavy objects or doing construction work, could raise questions about your condition, even if the image is old. Online viewers often only see the upload date, not when the photo was actually taken.
Because of this, it’s important to be cautious with what you share online. Adjust your privacy settings, limit what you post, and avoid discussing your injury or benefits publicly. Even casual or outdated content can be misunderstood and used against you.
If you are filing for workers’ compensation or Social Security disability benefits in California, an experienced attorney can help guide you through the process and protect your claim. If your case is challenged, especially due to social media activity, a skilled lawyer can defend your rights and address any concerns raised.
When it comes to your online presence, assume it may be reviewed. If you have questions about your claim or need legal guidance, contact an experienced California disability attorney as soon as possible.