DWP issues urgent warning to any benefit claimant with a smartphone
The warning from the Department for Work and Pensions talks about messages claiming to be from @dwpgovuk
The DWP has issued an urgent warning over potential scams
(Image: Getty Images )
Any benefit claimant with a mobile phone has been issued a warning from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The government department warned that one text message could actually be criminals attempting to steal claimants' "personal or financial details". Currently, 23.7 million peeople across the UK are receiving at least one form of benefit from the DWP, including the State Pension, Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Attendance Allowance, or Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA).
Writing on X and Facebook, the DWP said: "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 then encouraged anyone who encounters a suspicious text message to report it on GOV.UK by searching 'avoid and report internet scams and phishing'.
Cybercriminals may be exploiting the current cost of living crisis by pretending to be legitimate government entities such as the DWP or HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), in what are termed 'impersonation scams', reports the Daily Record.
Previously, there have been fraudulent text messages concerning 'unclaimed cost of living payments' and the Warm Home Discount scheme.
The DWP is also alerting members of the public to be wary of messages and emails that offer applications for Winter Fuel Payments. These payments are set to be distributed automatically in November or December, with no application required.
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These messages often contain 'direct links' to make a claim - something the DWP never does. Universal Credit claimants are typically contacted by their Work Coach via their online journal.
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 call them yourself and ask.
Simple steps to avoid scammers
Here are some quick checks everyone can do regularly to spot and avoid potential scams.
Never share your financial or personal information
Don't share your personal or financial details with anyone. This includes not writing down your banking details.
If you can remember your information, this is the safest option, but if you need to write down your details, ensure they're kept in a secure place and not taken with you when shopping. Reputable retailers will never ask for your PIN, CVC number or other identifying online banking information.
Regularly review your bank statement
If you spot an unfamiliar transaction, it's crucial to tell your bank straight away to have the card blocked. Most banks have a dedicated fraud action line, where you can report the theft and request a refund.
Keep tabs on your cards
If you misplace any of your bank cards or suspect they've been stolen, you should contact your bank immediately so they can freeze it.
Many banks now allow you to do this via their app, speeding up the process. It might be handy to have your bank's contact details readily available if necessary.
Be wary of suspicious emails or texts
Avoid responding to text messages or emails if their authenticity is questionable. You should never disclose private, personal information such as your banking details or passwords; no legitimate company should ever request these.
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Emails or texts with grammatical errors could indicate a phishing scam from an illegitimate source, so it's best to avoid these
Avoid suspicious links
Avoid clicking on any links if you're uncertain about their legitimacy.
Avoid downloading anything sent to you via email or text. Having antivirus software installed is also advisable as it scans for malware and safeguards against phishing attacks.
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