The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has warned of a potential risk of fraudulent text messages targeting the millions of people who receive benefits
Millions could be at risk of being scammed (Image: Getty Images)
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has sounded the alarm on social media, warning the nearly 24 million benefit recipients in Great Britain to watch out for scam texts fishing for “personal or financial details”. The DWP‘s cautionary message comes as a response to the rising tide of fraudsters impersonating official bodies amidst the cost-of-living crisis.
On Twitter and Facebook, the DWP issued a clear warning: “Be aware of scam text messages claiming to be from @dwpgovuk. Always be careful about links and never share personal or financial details, only engage with trusted official sources.”
The DWP is urging the public to report any suspicious text messages by visiting GOV.UK and searching for ‘avoid and report internet scams and phishing’. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of the current economic strain by posing as credible institutions like the DWP or HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) through ‘impersonation scams’.
There have been reports of fraudulent texts about ‘unclaimed cost of living payments’ and the Warm Home Discount scheme, often containing ‘direct links’ to claim benefits – a tactic not used by the DWP, which typically contacts Universal Credit claimants through their online journal managed by their Work Coach.
If you receive a text and you’re uncertain whether it’s genuinely from a DWP department or HM Revenue and Customs, the safest course of action is to ring them for confirmation, reports the Daily Record.
Simple steps to avoid scammers
Here are some quick checks everyone can perform regularly to identify and avoid potential scams.
Never disclose your financial or personal details
Avoid sharing your personal or financial information with anyone. This includes refraining from jotting down your banking details.
If you can commit your information to memory, this is the safest approach, but if you do need to note down your details, ensure they’re stored in a secure place and not carried around when shopping. Reputable retailers will never request your PIN, CVC number or other online banking identifiers.
Regularly review your bank statement
If you spot an unfamiliar transaction, it’s crucial to notify your bank straight away to have the card blocked. Most banks operate a dedicated fraud action line, where you can report the theft and ask for a refund.
Keep tabs on your cards
If you misplace any of your bank cards or suspect they’ve been stolen, you should get in touch with your bank immediately so they can freeze it.
Many banks now allow you to do this via their app rather than phoning up, which can expedite the process. It might be handy to have your bank’s contact details and phone number at hand, so you can reach out to them if necessary.
Be wary of suspicious emails or texts
Avoid responding to text messages or emails if you’re uncertain of their authenticity. A solid rule of thumb is to never disclose private, personal information.
This includes details such as your bank account information or passwords; no legitimate company should ever request these.
Emails or texts with grammatical errors can often indicate a phishing scam from an illegitimate source, so it’s best to avoid opening these.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links
Refrain from clicking on any links if you’re unsure of their legitimacy.
Avoid downloading anything sent to you via email or text. It’s advisable to have antivirus software installed, which will scan for malware and safeguard against phishing attacks.
