A HOUSING group is warning people to be vigilant after receiving multiple reports of its residents being involved in a Universal Credit scam.

Thirteen Housing Group, based in Stockton, said that scammers have been knocking on doors and claiming to be from a loan company.

The scammers then obtain details from the housing association's residents which are being used to make Universal Credit claims.

Thirteen said it is warning not only its residents but those in the surrounding area.

A spokesperson said: "We are still receiving reports that scammers are knocking on people's doors claiming to be from a loan company.

"They are obtaining details from the resident and then making false Universal Credit (UC) claims and getting access to UC funds.

"Our customers have been unaware that a claim has been made using their details until our UC team has contacted them to offer support for a claim they have not made.

"If you think this may have happened to you, you should report it as a crime as soon as possible.

"If you are a Thirteen customer, please let your neighbourhood coordinator know as soon as you can so that they can offer support."