Scots have been warned over a new scam targeting households amid the cost of living crisis.

The scam comes as the DWP £324 cost of living payment is sent out to thousands of bank accounts across the country.

The payment will see around 690,000 Scottish households automatically receive the money, which is part of a Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) package for those on means-tested benefits.

READ MORE: DWP: Universal Credit cost of living payment to hit bank accounts today

How the DWP £324 cost of living payment is received

Consumer Advice Scotland stressed that the payment will be automatically sent to eligible people through their bank accounts with no need to apply or provide further action.

How to avoid the DWP £324 cost of living payment scam 

As no other action is needed to receive the payment, Consumer Advice Scotland has said Scots should not respond to texts or emails asking people to fill out application forms.

Conor Forbes, director of policy with Advice Direct Scotland, said:
“Hundreds of thousands of Scots households will start receiving the cost-of-living support payment, and it’s vital to remember that this will happen automatically.

“There is no application form to fill out for the money. 

“Sadly, we know that scammers have repeatedly tried to capitalise on the cost-of-living crisis, so people should be alert to emails and texts asking for personal information in relation to the payments – the DWP will not do this.

“Anyone who is caught out by a scam, or spots a suspected scam, should report it by using our free scamwatch tool at www.consumeradvice.scot.

To find out more and learn more about Consumer Advice Scotland, please visit their website.