DWP warns of cost of living fraudsters

The DWP has issued a warning ahead of the next cost of living payment about a scam targeting low-income families.

Fraudsters are sending fake text messages that look like they’re from the government to people set to receive the essential benefit boost, asking them to click a link to make their application.

The message reads: “Your cost of living payment is ready – review and apply.” Once you’ve clicked on the link, you’re taken to what looks like the gov.uk site. That site asks you to register your full name, phone number and address, along with an email contact and also debt or credit card details to receive the payment.

If you send the scammers these details, they will steal your money or use them to commit further scams.

The DWP warns it would never ask for your bank details.

You do not need to apply for the cost of living payments - the £300 is automatically sent to the bank account your benefits are paid into when they’re available.

The date of the next cost of living payment is yet to confirmed but it is likely to be October-time.