The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) today told anyone who thinks they may be eligible for the the cost of living payments which amount to £900 over the next 12 months to be wary of scammers. Officials said that unscrupulous criminals were cynically targeting people to try and get their bank details.
People who are claiming means tested benefits should get the payout this year - with the first instalment arriving in bank accounts in spring, Lincolnshire Live reports. The first payment, which should arrive with people automatically, will be £301.
The second of £300 will come this autumn, with the final instalment of £299 in spring 2024. However, the DWP is urging claimants to be wary of a new scam doing the rounds, which is targeting people who are expecting the government support.
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The DWP warned that it will never ask for personal details in a text message or an email. In the posts on social media, the DWP said: “Watch out for scammers targeting people about #CostOfLiving Payments
“If you're eligible
- You do not need to apply for the payment
- You do not need to call us
- Payment to you is automatic
- We will never ask for personal details by SMS or email.”
People waiting for their cost of living cash boosts will receive it via the same method they usually receive their other benefits or tax credits. Guidance about scammers on the GOV.UK website added: “If you have had a message asking you to apply or contact someone about the payment, this might be a scam.”
In one such example, the recipient is asked to claim or apply for the payment by registering via a link. The links in the emails and texts lead to genuine looking websites that are designed to steal personal and financial information. The government emphasises that if you are eligible for cost of living assistance, you do no need to apply for the payment or contact the DWP directly. Payment to you is automatic and the DWP will never ask for personal details by SMS or email.
If you think you've been sent a text message like this, the DWP advises to report it by forwarding it to 7726 - which is free and reports the message to your mobile phone provider. If you receive a suspicious email, then you should forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) will investigate it.
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