Benefit claimants could have their bank accounts and social media activity monitored as the Department for Work and Pensions continues its crackdown on fraud.
According to new figures released by the DWP, fraud and error in the benefit system is falling - rates in 2023 fell to 3.6% (£8.3b) from 4.0% (£8.7b), with Universal Credit losses falling from 14.7% (£5,920m) to 12.8% (£5,540m). The statistics also reveal reduced rates of fraud, both overall and within Universal Credit.
The Government has been clear that it will crack down on those exploiting the benefits system as they are stealing from those who most need help. Tom Pursglove MP, minister responsible for tackling fraud, said: "Benefit fraud is never a victimless crime, which is why it’s entirely right we stop money going to fraudsters and serious crime groups intent on exploiting the system - and is instead paid to the people who need it.
