In various messengers and social networks, a story about a Ukrainian refugee who allegedly refused to pay for the services of a hairdresser and manicure in the amount of about 200 euros is spread to a foreign audience. It seems that the social security service should have paid the bill instead. The police allegedly called on this occasion after a short phone call confirmed that Ukrainian refugees have such privileges. This story is fake.

As the German fact-checkers of the CORRECTIVE project found out, similar stories were spread about two different cities. Local police have denied reports of calls. The Ministry of Social Affairs of the federal state of Saxony said that such compensation is not provided and is legally impossible. Since June 1, Ukrainians have been able to receive basic social security in Germany, but it does not cover visits to the hairdresser. Social assistance is the same for everyone and Ukrainians do not have any advantages compared to citizens of other countries.

Russian propaganda systematically spreads fakes that Ukrainian refugees have privileges compared to the help of citizens of other countries. The purpose of such fakes is to create a negative attitude towards Ukrainians abroad and reduce assistance. Previously, fakes were spread that the low-income in Poland were denied free food because of Ukrainian refugees.