NO IFS, NO BUTS.
We’re tracking benefit thieves in every way we can.
We now have access to more ways of tracking down and identifying benefit thieves:
Through undercover investigation teams based nationwide.
Through a National Benefit Fraud Hotline that takes hundreds of calls in confidence everyday from people reporting suspected benefit thieves.
Through Government computer systems that compare information to check if people are entitled to their benefit. In recent months, computers identified thousands of inconsistencies for further investigation.
Through Local Authorities who hold information about Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit.
Through HM Revenue & Customs who hold information about people claiming social security benefits, including details about tax credits, income, investments/savings and national insurance contributions.
Through the Home Office who supply data about passports and nationalities.
Through banks where we can apply for information about people’s bank accounts.
Through household utility companies (such as fuel and water companies) where we can apply for information about people's bills.
NO IFS, NO BUTS.
We’re targeting benefit thieves with a full range of penalties.
People suspected of benefit theft face:
- having to pay all the money back
- a taped interview under caution
- prosecution
- a fine
- a criminal record
- social stigma
Listen to the radio adverts from the campaign:
- Laughing (MP3 474KB) Read the Laughing advertisement (Rich text format 6KB)
- Shower (MP3 470KB) Read the Shower advertisement (Rich text format 7KB)
- Whistling (MP3 470KB) Read the Whistling advertisement (Rich text format 8KB)