People wanting to apply for Universal Credit in Nottingham have been warned of fake sites operating in the city - with crooks looking to exploit people during the coronavirus pandemic.
Citizens Advice Nottingham & District said it has become aware of fake Universal Credit sites operating in the city, with crooks looking to exploit people during the coronavirus lockdown at a time of uncertainty.
The advice group added that people calling up are being asked for the long number on their bank card and the 3-digit number on the back of their card which would allow other people to use it online for purchases.
This would not happen during a genuine Universal Credit claim.
The Department for Work and Pensions only requests sort codes and account numbers when dealing with a claimant.
It comes as Universal Credit will be raised by £1,000 a year as part of a £7billion coronavirus welfare rescue package.
The "standard allowance" - £323.22 a month for single people and £507.37 a month for couples - will be raised for the next 12 months.
Working Tax Credit will be raised by the same amount.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the move would "benefit four million of our most vulnerable households".
The government will also suspend the minimum income floor in Universal Credit "for everyone affected by the economic impact of coronavirus".
This means a self-employed person with zero income will be able to claim Universal Credit at a similar rate to someone who is unemployed.
Only use the official government website to claim https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit
If you need help the Citizens Advice Universal Credit helpline is also available, visit https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/contact-us/contact-us/help-to-claim/ for info.
