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<p>The Department takes the prevention of fraud extremely seriously. Part of its strategy
includes ensuring Universal Credit transactions are secure, including tackling loopholes
fraudsters may seek to exploit, which sadly can target some of our most vulnerable
claimants.</p><p>It is, however, important to recognise that the vast majority of
advances on Universal Credit are legitimate and ensure those in need of financial
support get the help they need during their transition to Universal Credit.</p><p>All
claims where fraud may have been committed are investigated. We are committed to the
use of penalties such as prosecutions and tough financial penalties, where appropriate,
to discourage this fraudulent behaviour. The Department considers all cases on their
own merits and decisions are made on the strength of the evidence provided.</p><p>Additionally,
we have a dedicated team of investigators to address this issue, and are working with
Social Media sites to shut down posts which promote this fraud. The Department also
operates a policy of explicit consent to help reduce the risk of fraud by ensuring
that our claimants’ data is kept safe from unscrupulous organisations and individuals.</p><p>The
Department is also raising awareness of this issue through a campaign being run on
social media to remind people of the importance of safeguarding their identity. We
have also been working to further improve knowledge and awareness of advances fraud
amongst Jobcentre and Service Centre staff and guidance has been issued to ensure
that staff are aware how to refer cases of suspected fraud to the Department’s Counter-fraud
team.</p>
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