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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> </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>
</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>
</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> </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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