DWP warns people on Universal Credit 'we're investigating' after 'reports'

Universal Credit claimants have been warned over a fake app that should be deleted immediately.

A Universal Credit warning has been issued by police as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) launched an investigation. Universal Credit claimants have been warned over a fake app that should be deleted immediately.

North Wales Police have warned claimants of a fake app being downloaded that could be a risk to users. The police force said: 'We've been made aware of a fake Universal Credit app that is available to download. This is not the official app for Universal Credit and may not be secure.

"The Department for Work and Pensions is investigating. If you have it on your device the advice is to uninstall the app and access your UC account via the Government's website." The force has not given more details about the app.

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It said: "Please be aware of a fake Universal Credit app and fake Universal Credit texts to customers. DWP do not have an app for Universal Credit. You should access your Universal Credit account via the government's website."

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that no such app exists. It is not an official government app and isn't safe. Using this app could put you at risk of fraud or identity theft. Only use the official government website to manage your Universal Credit account

If you’ve already applied for Universal Credit, but are still waiting for your first payment, scammers will apply for an Advance Payment on your behalf. They’ll take some of the money as a fee. They’ll ask you for your Universal Credit login details. They’ll also claim to have some kind of inside access, such as a friend working at the Jobcentre Plus, who can approve these payments quickly.

If you’re already getting benefits, but not Universal Credit, scammers will first offer to make a claim for Universal Credit on your behalf. Or they might claim they can apply for a loan or grant – but instead make a Universal Credit application for you.