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# Residents warned of living allowance text scam
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/residents-warned-of-living-allowance-text-scam/
- Published: 2024-10-15T07:20:48.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:32:54.000Z
- Description: 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.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Scams & Consumer Safety, #article, Suffolk Trading Standards, #Import 2026-03-16 14:46

**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](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1727963266-universal-credit-scam-6.png)

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.

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