As the first instalment of the new Delinked Payment scheme was issued this month, farmers are being urged to exercise caution when dealing with their finances.
The National Farmers Union is warning of a range of tactics fraudsters have used to deceive farmers who receive support payments, particularly around key payment dates.
Duncan & Toplis supports over 500 agricultural clients across the East Midlands and I’ve experienced first-hand the damage scams can cause hardworking business owners.
Last year, for example, I spoke with a farming secretary who fell victim to a particularly sophisticated phishing scam. The fraudsters stole the maximum amount possible without raising concerns with the bank - £200,000 in total, spread over four payments. While they were able to arrange for the bank to refund the amount in full within two weeks, it’s a sobering prospect for any business owner.
These scams are real and they are out there, so I’d caution farmers to be on guard, particularly around key payment dates.
Indeed, with the news of Delinked Payments replacing the Basic Payment Scheme having been widely publicised, and with information on key payment dates readily available online, farm secretaries and those dealing with receipt of payment through the new scheme should be extra vigilant.
Phishing accounts for 84% of cybercrimes against UK businesses, making this a vulnerability that the sector simply cannot afford to ignore.
The National Cyber Security Centre says that phishing is ‘when criminals use scam emails, text messages or phone calls to trick their victims. The aim is often to make you visit a website, which may download a virus onto your computer, or steal bank details or other personal information.'
With a change from the previous system, it isn’t inconceivable that some farmers may be tricked by fraudsters into compromising their data security and exposing themselves to cybercrime.
98% of UK farmers that qualify should have received their initial payment on Monday 5 August. The scheme, which has now officially replaced the Basic Payment Scheme, saw £401 million released into the rural economy, when coupled with funding from similar initiatives.
The second payment will also be brought forward, now being issued to farmers’ bank accounts from 30 September instead of December, as initially planned. Those in the sector are advised to be wary of unsolicited emails and phone calls around these dates to prevent falling victim to fraud.
To avoid falling victim to phishing scams, it is vital to never click on an unusual link or respond to an email from an unknown sender.
Always double-check the sender by clicking on the ‘from’ name on your emails and check that the actual email address is from a known source that you recognise. If it appears to be a business or contact name that you recognise but a different email address, always query it at the source; contact them directly by their usual phone or their email address to confirm if the email in question is genuine.
Any updates you receive about your Delinked Payments should come from ruralpayments@defra.gov.uk. If this isn’t the case, forward the email to that address or call the Rural Payments Helpline on 03000 200 301.
Scammers are increasingly convincing, often using visuals that closely mimic official bodies, such as Defra, banks and the NFU.
Always check an email you find suspicious to see if it matches the same style and formatting as other emails you have received from a verified source in the past.
Similarly, only click on a link in an email when you are certain it is taking you to your preferred website with the exact phrasing you recognise. For example, if you are trying to find out information about Delinked Payments, look for a gov.uk URL.
If the website address is different to this or is preceded by additional information (such as www.delinked.payments@gov.uk) do not click it, as it may be a duplicate site set up solely for the purposes of stealing sensitive information.
It’s important to be aware that instalments of the Delinked Payments scheme will always be made by BACS transfer, directly to the bank account specified on your application form.
Do not be swayed by emails that mention problems with pending payments and do not give away sensitive personal information either by email or via a phone call.
If you feel you are being pressured to act urgently (with wording such as “you must act on this now” or “you must reply by….”), contact the Defra via the Rural Payments Helpline directly on 03000 200 301 or ruralpayments@defra.gov.uk.
If you’re concerned about your financial situation or would like to know more about how you can safeguard your assets against fraudsters, get in touch with our team of experts today.
