The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a warning to benefits claimants regarding the risks of identity fraud. Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on February 14, the DWP urged individuals to avoid sharing sensitive information online to protect themselves from scams and fraudsters.
With an increase in online scams, the government has reinforced the importance of keeping personal details secure to prevent identity theft.
Key Information You Should Never Share
The DWP advises claimants to avoid sharing these three pieces of sensitive information:
- Full name and date of birth – Fraudsters can use this to impersonate you.
- National Insurance number – Can be misused for fraudulent financial activities.
- Answers to security questions – Used for identity verification, making accounts vulnerable.
By keeping this information private, you reduce the risk of identity fraud and unauthorised access to your accounts.
Understanding Identity Theft and Fraud
Identity theft occurs when criminals steal your personal and financial details to commit fraud. This can happen through:
- Online scams – Hackers accessing personal details via social media or phishing emails.
- Physical theft – Stolen passports, bank statements, driving licences or other official documents.
- Discarded paperwork – Criminals searching through bills, bank statements, invoices, or receipts in household waste.
How Fraudsters Use Stolen Information
Once they have your details, fraudsters may:
- Open bank accounts in your name.
- Apply for credit or loans without intending to repay.
- Access your bank account and conduct unauthorised transactions.
- Commit benefit fraud by claiming government support under your identity.
What to Do If You Suspect Identity Fraud
If you believe someone has stolen your personal information, take immediate action to protect yourself and your finances.
Steps to Take
- Contact Your Bank – Report any unusual activity or unauthorised transactions.
- Change Your Passwords and PINs – Secure your accounts by updating login credentials.
- Register with Cifas – The UK’s fraud prevention agency can help protect against further misuse.
- Report Stolen Documents – Notify the relevant authorities if a passport, driving licence, or bank card has been lost or stolen.
- Monitor Your Credit Report – Check for unfamiliar credit applications or loans in your name.
- Report Suspicious Credit Applications – Inform your bank or financial institutions of any fraudulent attempts.
- Alert Your Bank if Credit Is Taken Out in Your Name – Prevent further financial damage by reporting fraud immediately.
Government’s Stop! Think Fraud Campaign
As part of its Stop! Think Fraud campaign, the government is encouraging UK residents to be more cautious online. They warn that identity fraud is on the rise and that fraudsters can use even basic personal details to commit crimes.
By staying vigilant and safeguarding your information, you can help prevent financial losses and fraud-related stress.
With online scams and identity theft on the rise, the DWP’s warning serves as a critical reminder for benefit claimants to protect their personal information. Avoid sharing sensitive details such as National Insurance numbers, full names, and security answers online.
If you suspect identity fraud, act quickly by contacting your bank, updating passwords, and reporting suspicious activity to prevent financial losses. Staying informed and cautious is the best way to safeguard yourself from online fraud.
For more information, visit the official UK government website or check the Stop! Think Fraud campaign resources.
Source: Link
FAQ’s
What information should I avoid sharing online?
The DWP advises against sharing your full name, date of birth, National Insurance number, and answers to security questions to protect against fraud.
What should I do if I suspect identity fraud?
Immediately contact your bank, change your passwords, register with Cifas, and report any stolen documents to prevent further misuse.
How do fraudsters use stolen personal information?
They can open bank accounts, apply for credit, access your finances, or commit benefit fraud using your identity.
How can I check if someone has taken credit in my name?
Check your credit report for suspicious activity and report any unauthorised credit applications to your bank.
What is the UK government’s Stop! Think Fraud campaign?
It is an initiative to raise awareness about online fraud and encourage people to protect their personal information.
