Universal Credit Scam – Be Aware
Greater Manchester Police have warned about a scam where people are pretending to offer people low cost government loans, using their details to apply for Universal Credit.Trading Standards have also been made aware of the scam which is targeting people in the North West.
Fraudsters are targeting people of working age and claiming that they are able to help them access a low cost government loan. The scammer then uses their victim's personal details to apply for Universal Credit and requests a substantial advance payment. They then take a big cut for themselves. The victim doesn’t realise their existing benefits will now have been stopped and and replaced by Universal Credit and they will be required to pay back the “loan” in full from future Universal Credit payments.
Remember if it sounds too good to be true it probably is!!! Never give your personal or financial information to anyone you do not know. For further advice please contact the Financial Inclusion Team.
