Tuesday 7 April 2020

Universal Credit Scam Alert

There are reports of some fake sites appearing and operating claiming to be Universal Credit Claim sites.

Genuine Gov.uk only 

Only apply online using https://www.gov.uk/ and in ‘search’ type “apply Universal Credit”

Or use https://www.gov.uk/apply-universal-credit

DO NOT USE ANY OTHER WEBSITE TO APPLY! 

New claims 

Whilst making your new claim which is divided into sections, under the Account Details section - you will only be asked for your bank account, sort code, number and name of account holder as it appears on bank card.

If any other details are required – this is not a genuine UC claim website or application.

Advance Payments 

These can only be applied for online using your own personal journal and account. You should know your own username, password and security information – NEVER share these or write them down.

Only access your online account via https://www.gov.uk/ with the address: https://www.gov.uk/sign-in-universal-credit

UC WILL ALREADY HAVE YOUR BANK ACCOUNT DETAILS so you will not need to enter them.

REMEMBER 

UC, DWP or JCP WILL NEVER ASK YOU FOR:

  • the long number on your bank card
  • three-digit number on the back of your card


These would allow other people to use your card online for purchases. This would not happen during a genuine Universal Credit claim or appointment.

NEVER give your account details out by telephone. If you are asked for your account details:

  • Refuse
  • Look up the number on the internet (you can search for your local Jobcentre here: https://www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentreplus)
  • Call the department or agency back using a genuine number to report issues of attempted fraud
Genuine numbers to call back:
UC Helpline 0800 328 5644 or use https://www.gov.uk/contactjobcentre-plus