Scam warning after residents sent texts saying they are eligible for £900 hardship grants
Birmingham residents are being warned not to respond to texts offering £900 in Government-backed hardship funds. Messages tell people they are eligible for the cash from the Household Support Fund (HSF) and ask them to click on a link and provide bank details.
Birmingham City Council said it was fake and advised against clicking and sending any financial details. The authority said: "Residents are receiving a text message advising them they are eligible for £900 from the Household Support Fund (HSF) and to click on a link and provide their bank details. This is false.
"Residents will not receive any communication asking them to submit their bank details in order to access funding from the council."
Households facing financial hardship can apply for grants through the Hardship Grant Community Fund. The payments are up to £200 per home and are intended to help with everyday essentials such as energy and food.
Receiving a grant from this fund does not impact any other benefits the person may be receiving or may be entitled to. Grant payments are made directly into a bank account in the applicant’s name.