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Trading Standards Scams 'Benefits UK'

Royal Greenwich Trading Standards have been made aware of a scam phone call from someone claiming to be from "Benefits UK" (the 'phone call list showed the call as International).


On this occasion the caller asked if they were speaking to the “man of the house” and then called the resident by their surname, and gave the correct postcode. The caller then said they wanted to ask some questions and would then not call again.


The caller then asked how to pronounce the residents first name. The resident replied “as you knew my surname and post-code, surely you know my first name”. The caller then asked him to give him just the initial – the resident said R – the caller said "as in Robert". The resident agreed, although none of his names begin with R. the caller was, presumably, "phishing".

  • Legitimate agencies will send everything in writing.
  • Never give any private information away over the phone or on email.
  • If you're concerned you've been scammed, get in touch with your bank to inform them immediately.
  • You can also call your phone provider to see if the call was genuine.
  • You would never receive a call regarding benefits in this way.

If you have been a victim of a scam please report it to Action Fraud using the details below.

WHERE TO REPORT Protect others by reporting incidents like this to us on 0208 921 8223 or email tradingstandards@royalgreenwich.gov.uk

Action Fraud- https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ or 0300 123 2040 Or call Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 04 05 06 (Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm)