Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband,
Key Facts About the £500 Cost of Living Payment Scam
A new wave of online scams is circulating across the UK, falsely claiming that people are entitled to a £500 Cost of Living payment. Authorities have issued warnings urging the public to remain cautious and avoid sharing personal details in response to these fraudulent messages.
The Claim is False
According to official UK government sources, there are no further Cost of Living payments planned beyond the final payment made in early 2024. Any message, text, or email claiming that a new £500 payment is available is a scam.
Method of the Scam
Fraudsters are sending deceptive texts and emails that appear to come from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). These messages include links to fake government-branded websites, which then ask victims to enter their personal information or bank details to “claim” the supposed payment.
Once submitted, this data can be used for identity theft, financial fraud, or unauthorised access to bank accounts.
How to Identify the Scam
• Unsolicited Contact: The DWP or HMRC will never contact you by text or email to ask for your personal or banking details.
• No Application Needed: Genuine Cost of Living payments were automatically issued to eligible recipients based on DWP records — no application or link was ever required.
• Pressure Tactics: Scammers often use phrases like “act now” or “claim before the deadline” to create a false sense of urgency and push victims into clicking malicious links.
Impact of the Scam
Victims of the scam risk having their personal data stolen and could face significant financial loss. Stolen details may also be used in identity fraud, causing long-term damage to credit ratings and personal security.
How to Protect Yourself
• Do Not Engage: If you receive a message about a £500 Cost of Living payment, do not click any links, download attachments, or share your details.
• Report Suspicious Messages:
• Texts: Forward to 7726 (a free service to help phone providers block scam numbers).
• Emails: Forward to report@phishing.gov.uk.
Final Advice
Always verify information directly from official government websites such as gov.uk. If an offer sounds too good to be true — especially one that asks for personal or bank details — it almost certainly is. Staying alert and reporting scams helps protect not only yourself but others across the UK from falling victim to similar frauds.
Attached is a news artcle regarding scam emails target benefits claimants
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/money/new-dwp-winter-fuel-payment-36070760.amp
Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley
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