by Workingman » 09 Nov 2013, 13:25
I am confused about National Insurance numbers and the part they play in all this. They are supposed to be unique, last a lifetime, and are necessary to gain access to all sorts of services and benefits.
Are there fake ones out there? This should not be the case. There should be a big file (database) with all the legit ones ever issued, and those cancelled on death, on it, so that an immediate check can be made. Has the system been monitored effectively? I suspect not.
Are there 'shared' NI numbers out there? Is there a type of 'identity theft' scam being carried out where one person with a legit number 'lends' it out to others? I suspect there is.
Are multiple applications being made by the same person using false documents? This was proved to be the case by, I think, Dispatches. Individuals were making multiple claims then selling the NI numbers on to illegals for huge sums of money.
Are Jobcentre staff being rigorous enough at identity interviews? Do they have the training and the means to thoroughly check the documents presented to them, and do they treat each applicant with at least a low level of suspicion? I do not think they do.