People claiming benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have been issued urgent advice so that they don't lose their money.
There has been a rise in benefits-related crime and, according to Action Fraud, new scams are currently circulating.
The national reporting centre for fraud and cyber crime says that it has been receiving reports from the members of public who have been sent fraudulent emails and texts purporting to be from the DWP.
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As reported by Birmingham Live, the number of people claiming benefits such as Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) has shot up as a result of the pandemic and the cost of living crisis — and fraudsters are taking advantage.
According to MoneyHelper, people have been approached in the street by smartly dressed people claiming to be from Jobcentre Plus, whilst others have been contacted online through social media sites, direct messages or adverts.
People have also reported receiving messages from somebody claiming they have a friend who works at a Jobcentre who would be able to process or approve of their application on their behalf.
In most cases, scammers offer to apply for Universal Credit advance payments but will take some of the money - 40 per cent or more - as a fee.
This is why it is very important that benefits claimants are extremely careful about sharing personal information with others.
Here are seven Universal Credit account rules claimants should be following.
1. Use a unique username and password
Most people who claim Universal Credit do so via an online account where changes can be reported and messages can be sent to officials.
When signing up, you will be told to create a username and password, which will then give you access to the account.
These should be strong and memorable — you can read how to create a strong and memorable password on GOV.UK.
2. Don't write it down or share it, even with your partner
It is very important that nobody else has access to your login information as that would enable them to log in to your account without your knowledge or permission.
If you are making a joint claim for Universal Credit, do not share your username and password with your partner.
It's best if you memorise your username and password and don't keep them written down anywhere that can be easily found.
3. Set up some security questions
You will need to answer a couple of security questions and will be asked one of these questions every time you log in to your account.
4. Use two-factor authentication
You might be asked to add extra security to your account called two-factor authentication. This is optional and if you decide to do it, you will be sent a passcode to your mobile phone. You’ll then need to enter this code on your account to get in.
You are sent a new code each time you log in or use a new device - unless you log in on the same device within 24 hours.
5. Keep your personal security number safe
Claimants are given a 16 digit Personal Security Number (PSN) after the first Universal Credit interview with their work coach. Keep this number safe as you will need it if you ever need to create a new password.
6. Don't click on links in emails or texts
The DWP will never text or email asking for your personal information or bank details. So make sure you don't click on links or attachments in emails and never respond to unsolicited messages and calls that ask for personal or financial details.
Forward suspect emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and suspicious text messages to 7726.
7. Recognise genuine calls
If you are expecting a call from the DWP, officials will usually leave you a message in your online journal to let you know they are phoning and that you must be available for an appointment. So be on your guard for unsolicited calls in case they are not genuine.
Also bear in mind that you are expected to be around to answer the phone at the time the DWP says they'll call or you may get sanctioned. Claimants have reported having their benefits stopped for months over missed calls, or even their claim being closed altogether.
