The DWP is urgently cautioning those receiving state pension, PIP, and Universal Credit.

Attention everyone receiving state pension, PIP, or Universal Credit! It's important to stay on your guard as scammers are constantly coming up with new tricks to swindle money from people. The numbers are alarming, with over £11,500,000 lost during the recent holiday season alone, including over the sales on Black Friday. The Department for Work and Pensions is now warning those who receive these benefits to be extra cautious.

The latest scam involves receiving text messages that claim to be from the DWP. It's crucial to be careful with any links and never share personal or financial information. Stick to reliable and trustworthy sources. If you receive any suspicious messages, don't hesitate to report them to Action Fraud.

Did you know that more than 40 million people in the UK have been targeted by scammers? According to the Office for National Statistics, an estimated 19,000,000 people have lost an average of £1,730 each. It's a staggering number, and it's even more alarming to learn that people receive about 240 scam emails or texts every year. YouGov's research also shows a sharp increase in online scams since 2022.

Apart from targeting those who receive benefits, scammers also have their sights set on pensioners. Last year, Action Fraud received 559 reports of pension fraud, with a total of £17,750,635 lost. It's a significant amount, and it's devastating to think that someone's life savings could be at risk.

Remember, don't be embarrassed to report a scam if you've been a victim. Fraudsters are skilled in impersonating others and manipulating their victims. You may think you're immune, but don't let your guard down. It's crucial to protect your pension and investments and do your research before making any major decisions.

If you come across any pension opportunities that seem too good to be true or are offered out of the blue, be cautious. Don't let anyone pressure you into making hasty decisions. Seek advice from independent professionals or trusted family and friends. Let's all work together to prevent fraudsters from getting their hands on our hard-earned money.

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