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Residents warned of living allowance text scam

News

Multiple residents have reported receiving fraudulent text messages claiming to offer a "living allowance" from the UK Government. Local authorities are urging caution as these messages are part of a scam.

The big picture: Scammers are targeting Ipswich residents with text messages that appear to be from the UK Government, offering a fictitious "living allowance".

Why it matters: These messages are designed to steal personal and financial information from unsuspecting victims.

Scam: Universal credit app
Multiple residents have reported receiving fraudulent text messages claiming to offer a "living allowance" from the UK Government

The details:

  • The scam text claims recipients are eligible for a living allowance to help with winter expenses.

  • It includes a link to a fake website that mimics the official UK Government site.

  • The fraudulent page requests personal data and payment information.

What to watch for:

  • Messages mentioning a "living allowance" from the UK Government.

  • Requests to update information via a link to claim benefits.

  • Any text asking for personal or financial details.

How to respond:

  • Do not click on any links in suspicious text messages.

  • Forward any questionable texts to 7726 - a free service for reporting potential scams.

The bottom line: Stay vigilant and remember that legitimate government agencies will not request personal or financial information via text message.