DWP sends new warning to anyone who uses a smartphone
Benefit claimants across the country could be at risk if they use a mobile phone. According to data from the DWP, 23.7 million people 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).
The government department warned that these benefit claimants could be targeted by criminals who attempt to steal "personal or financial details". Through social media posts on X and Facebook, the DWP cautioned: "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."
Claimants who stumble upon suspicious texts are urged to report the incidents via GOV.UK by searching 'avoid and report internet scams and phishing'. Amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis, criminals may be posing as genuine bodies like the DWP or HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in so-called 'impersonation scams', reports the Daily Record.
Earlier instances of scam texts promised unclaimed cost of living payments or payments from the Warm Home Discount scheme. The DWP is also urging the public to beware of messages and emails offering applications for Winter Fuel Payments.
These payments are due to be automatically issued in November or December, with no need for an application. Many messages may also contain 'direct links' to make a claim - this is something the DWP says it never does. Typically, Universal Credit claimants are contacted by their Work Coach via their online journal.
If you're unsure about a text's authenticity from a DWP department or HM Revenue and Customs, the best course of action is to ring them directly 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. 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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