The DWP has warned households about scams linked to the Household Support Fun The DWP has warned people eligible for the scheme, which runs until September after the Conservative Party extended its term.
The department has contacted local authorities to alert them to the danger of fraudsters taking advantage of the situation. Residents have been receiving strange calls telling them they are eligible for the Household Support Fund, the DWP warned.
The caller then claims to be from their local council and asks for the resident’s bank details so the money can be transferred to their account. Councillor Paul Arnott, leader of East Devon District Council (EDDC), said: “Unfortunately, residents across the country are becoming targets of fraudsters.”
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According to BirminghamLive, Plymouth City Council says eligible residents can receive vouchers worth a maximum of £740. This includes £240 worth of supermarket vouchers for Asda, Morrisons, Tesco, Sainsburys, Aldi or Iceland, and £200 worth of energy vouchers. This also includes an essential furniture or appliance item or £300 worth of clothing vouchers.
Arnott said: “Be careful when giving out personal or payment details over the phone. If you are ever in doubt as to whether someone calling you is really from the council, please end the conversation. Make sure you speak to EDDC’s customer services team by calling the switchboard on 01404 515 616.”
If you apply for help from the Household Support Fund and have not received a letter, the aid will be paid out in the form of vouchers or payments directly to suppliers. “When we help you fill out one of these applications, we will not ask you for your bank details over the phone,” the council also explained.
In an alert issued today (Friday 9 August), the council said: “If you believe you have been scammed you can report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. For advice call Citizens Advice’s consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.”
“If you give your banking details to a fraudster, notify your bank immediately,” the council advised households in light of the cost of living crisis.
