The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a warning to benefit claimants amid fears of people committing fraud.
The government department has encouraged benefit claimants to be aware of fraud and to "protect your personal details at all time". Because of this, claimants may be asked to provide a form of ID to confirm their identity which can include a passport.
Posting a reminder on Twitter, the department told social media users: "DWP may ask you to submit ID such as your passport. We will always add a message to your journal to prove it is us.
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"Your information can be used by criminals to commit benefit and other fraud. If you believe you have been targeted, contact Action Fraud."
Claimants have previously been warned of scammers targeting vulnerable claimants over cost of living payments. It reminded people that in the case they are eligible fo the payment, they do not need to apply and the money will be issued automatically.
Similarly, you should ignore any calls, texts, or emails claiming to be from the DWP regarding the Cost of Living payments. If you have concerns about your eligibility for the upcoming payments or anything else to do with benefits, you should contact the DWP directly using official emails and numbers which can be found on GOV.UK.
If you think you are being targeted by a fraudster, contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
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