That problem isn't exclusive to this company. They pay out hush money to settle and then the managers responsible for making it happen get
fired. It's not the way they're supposed to be doing business and it is in stark contrast to the rules and regulations that are very prominently posted in every station and most places of employment throughout the country.
If your manager tells you to work off the clock, request that

in writing. That will quickly change their tune. When you decide to do it on your own, that's your fault.