The remoteness of the Elazig-Hozat area and the high degree of illiteracy have made
claimants and beneficiaries in this area easy prey to the influence of claims helpers.
In the past, these helpers were involved in fraudulent claims and the submission of
fraudulent evidence. One individual arranged the marriages of retired beneficiaries
to young women (including their own relatives), fraudulent adoptions (including adoption
of their own children) and fraudulent child claims.
Although there is no indication that these helpers are still actively involved in
the filing of claims, most of the beneficiaries currently entitled to benefits in
this area have, at one time or another, been involved with them. In addition, some
of the young spouses who had been involved in fraudulent child claims are nearing
retirement age.