Major DWP benefits changes announced amid 'privacy' concerns

DWP set to step up investigations in bid to combat benefit fraud

DWP benefit claimants have been warned there is likely to be an increase in fraud investigations as part of a crackdown from the new Labour Government. Keir Starmer has pledged to tackle fraud and waste in the benefits system which costs £10 billion a year.

And it will see efforts stepped up to investigate cases where there are suspicions people may be wrongly claiming money from the state. But experts believe privacy concerns could arise as a result of the extra focus on what people are claiming and whether they should be getting the money.

The majority of claimants will have nothing to worry about and should not notice any impact as they will be legitimately claiming benefits. Labour says the welfare system is in need of major reform as too much money is wasted every year.

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It comes after it was previously reported the DWP would be using powers to "snoop" on accounts of benefit claimants where there were suspicions of fraud. Daniel McAfee, head of legal operations at Lawhive, said: "The new legislation is likely to increase the number of welfare fraud investigations and prosecutions. This will lead to a rise in the demand for legal advice, both for claimants and organisations involved in the administration of welfare benefits.

"Expanding the DWP's powers to investigate and recover funds may raise legal concerns around privacy, data protection, and due process. Claimants’ rights under the Human Rights Act 1998, particularly the right to a fair trial and the right to respect for private and family life (Article 8), must be safeguarded during investigations.

"Additionally, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will continue to play a crucial role in ensuring that any data collected or used during these investigations is handled lawfully, transparently, and proportionately. Legal professionals may advise claimants who believe their rights have been infringed, or that investigative methods, such as data surveillance or cross-referencing financial information, have overstepped legal boundaries. Transparency and accountability in how these new powers are applied will be key to mitigating potential legal risks.”