DWP is urging people to watch out for fake text messages designed to steal personal and financial data.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a new warning on its social media channels advising millions of people receiving benefits to be on the lookout for text messages from criminals trying to steal their “personal or financial details”.
There are currently 23.7 million people across Great Britain in receipt of at least one benefit from the DWP such as the State Pension (a contributory benefit), Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Attendance Allowance or Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA).
In post shared on X and Facebook, 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.”
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DWP then urged anyone who receives a suspicious text message to report it on GOV.UK – just search ‘avoid and report internet scams and phishing’.
Online criminals may be trying to capitalise on the ongoing cost of living crisis by pretending to be official government bodies such as the DWP or HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). These are known as ‘impersonation scams’.
In the past we’ve seen scam text messages about ‘unclaimed cost of living payments’ and the Warm Home Discount.
These texts often include ‘direct links’ to make a claim – something DWP never does. Universal Credit claimants will usually be contacted by their Work Coach through their online journal.
If you receive a text and you’re not sure if it is genuinely from a DWP department- the Scottish Government, Social Security Scotland or HM Revenue and Customs – the safest way to check is to call them and ask.
Simple steps to avoid scammers
Below 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 information with anyone. This includes never writing your banking details down.
If you are able to memorise your information, this can be the safest option, but if you do need to write down your details, make sure this is kept in a safe place and not taken with you when shopping. Trustworthy retailers will never ask you for your PIN, CVC number or other identifying online banking information.
Check your bank statement regularly
If you notice an unfamiliar transaction, it is important to alert your bank immediately to get the card blocked. Most banks have a dedicated fraud action line, where you can report the theft and request a refund.
Keep an eye on your cards
If you lose any of your bank cards or suspect they have been stolen, you should contact your bank immediately so they can freeze it.
Many banks now let you do this from the app rather than calling up, which can help to speed the process along. It may be useful to have your bank’s details and phone number available, so you can contact them if needed.
Be wary of suspicious emails or texts
Do not reply to text messages or emails if you can’t be sure they’re genuine. A good hard and fast rule is to never give out private, personal information. This includes information such as your bank details or passwords, no company should ever be asking for these.
Emails or texts with grammar errors can be a sign of a phishing scam from a non-legitimate source, so it is best to avoid opening these.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links
Don’t click on any links if you’re not sure they are coming from a legitimate source.
Don’t download anything sent to you via email or text. It is a good idea to have antivirus software installed, this will scan for malware and protect you from phishing attacks.