Cost of Living payment scam

chiarieds

 (with permission to share this from my local police)

With the Autumn Cost of Living payment due soon, the Department for Work and Pensions have issued a warning to millions of people.

The DWP's cost of living payments have been a lifeline for many low-income families since they were introduced in July last year, with millions receiving the payments.

Now, ahead of the Autumn payment, which will see eligible families receiving £300, the DWP is warning people to look out for a scam that's doing the rounds.

'Be aware'

In the scam, criminals are sending text messages claiming to be from ‘the Government’.

The messages tell people that their cost of living payment is ready to be 'claimed' and says people need to click a link in the text to apply.

However, when the link is clicked on, it takes the claimant to a fake website where they’re asked to hand over personal details including their name, address, email address, phone number and card details.

No need to claim

All Cost of Living payments are automatically paid by the DWP directly to those who are eligible, so customers do not need to apply or contact the Government at any stage.

If you have had a message asking you to apply, accept or contact someone about the payment, this might be a scam.

What should I do if I’ve been scammed?

If you think you’ve been scammed, contact your bank immediately who might be able to stop any unauthorised payments being made from your account and report it to the police on 101

You can call 159 which will connect you to your bank – it works the same way as calling 101 for the police, and will get you through to your bank safely and securely.

You’ll need to change any passwords that you think have been compromised, and you can also contact Action Fraud to report any scams by calling 0300 123 2040, or through the Action Fraud website.

The Government says suspicious emails can be forwarded to report@phishing.gov.uk so they can be investigated by its National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

Possible scam texts can also be forwarded for free to 7726 – this will report the message to your mobile phone provider.

When will I get the Autumn Cost of Living payment?

Although no exact date has yet been announced for when the last 2023 cost of living payment will be made, it’s been suggested that it’ll be paid in October or November.

This will be the second of 3 payments issued by the government with a £300 payment to be paid in Spring 2024. 

Another announcement is also expected in November this year during the Budget about potential further payments.

Jimm_Scope

Thank you for posting this @chiarieds, scammers will often target those who are vulnerable and also in need, as that need can make the person less likely to take the time to check who they are giving information to. Which makes those who receive cost of living payments a very tempting target.

I hope everyone keeps an eye out, especially if you have relatives who are not so good with technology or not as knowledgeable about these scams.