The Woman Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaign has issued a warning to thousands of women across the country. Reports indicate a surge in fraudulent compensation claim forms targeting pensioners, posing a severe risk of financial loss.
Fraud awareness is more important than ever as pension scams become increasingly sophisticated. Recently, several unofficial websites have surfaced, claiming to help women impacted by changes to the state pension age secure compensation of up to £2,950. However, these sites are designed to deceive and defraud.
How the Scam Works
These fraudulent websites often appear legitimate, making it easy for victims to be misled. They target women born in the 1950s, promising compensation by filling out online forms. These sites, usually originating from outside the UK, are scams intending to steal personal information and money.
Victims of this pension scam face severe consequences. By providing personal details, they risk identity theft and significant financial loss. Fraudsters may use the stolen information to drain bank accounts, apply for loans, or commit further fraud in the victims’ names. The emotional toll can be equally devastating, leading to stress, anxiety, and a loss of trust in legitimate institutions.
Historical Context and Ombudsman’s Findings
In 2021, the Parliament and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) found the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) guilty of “maladministration” regarding the equalisation of the state pension age between men and women. Earlier this year, the Ombudsman proposed that affected women might be entitled to payouts ranging from £1,000 to £2,950. However, this proposal still requires parliamentary approval, which has yet to be secured.
The absence of an official compensation scheme has created a fertile ground for fraudsters. Neither Labour nor the Conservative Party has included compensation proposals in their manifestos, leaving the affected 3.8 million women vulnerable. Fraudsters have exploited this inaction, seeing an opportunity to prey on desperate individuals seeking justice.
Waspi Campaign’s Call for Vigilance
Angela Madden, the Chair of WASPI, expressed her alarm over the increase in scam websites. She emphasised the urgency of the situation, pointing out that the most vulnerable women are at the most significant risk. Madden reiterated that any announcement of a legitimate compensation scheme would come directly from the UK government.
Despite the PHSO’s findings and recommendations, ministers have not made a final decision on the compensation scheme. Over 3.6 million women born in the 1950s have suffered from the changes, with many receiving insufficient notice about the six-year increase to their state pension age, plunging thousands into poverty.
Protecting Yourself from Pension Scams
To protect themselves, women should be highly cautious of unsolicited emails, messages, or websites offering compensation. It is crucial to verify the authenticity of any claims through official government channels. If fraudsters compromise any personal data, victims must contact Action Fraud immediately to mitigate the damage.
A DWP spokesperson told GB News, “We are considering the Ombudsman’s report and will respond in due course. The Government remains committed to supporting all pensioners sustainably, ensuring a dignified retirement while being fair to taxpayers.” The spokesperson added, “The state pension is the foundation of retirement income. Recently, we delivered an 8.5% increase, raising the state pension for 12 million pensioners by £900.”
The WASPI campaign’s warning highlights the critical need for fraud prevention and vigilance. As the call for compensation continues, government action is essential to protect the affected women from scams and ensure their financial security. Women must stay informed, verify claims through official channels, and remain cautious to avoid becoming victims of pension fraud.
