The DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) could monitor your social media and bank accounts as part of a new crackdown on fraud. The DWP has released new official figures around the number of accounts of fraud and error in the benefit system, as the UK government revealed plans to continue to drive down such behaviour and protect tax payers' money.
The latest national statistics state that in the last year fraud and error rates in 2023 fell to 3.6% (£8.3 billion) from 4% (£8.7 billion), with Universal Credit losses falling from 14.7% (5,920 million) to 12.8% (£5,540 million). The Daily Record reports that the figures also revealed rates of fraud, both overall and within the Universal Credit benefits scheme.
As more than 20 million people across the country are currently claiming State Pension or benefits from the DWP to help with the rising costs of living, the UK government has laid out plans to crack down on those exploiting the system and prevent people stealing money from those who need it most. Tom Pursglove, MP, is the minister responsible for tackling fraud and 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.
