The DWP now has new powers to take funds straight from bank accounts. (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

New DWP anti-fraud laws have come into force this week, bringing in powers that allow officials to take money straight from people's bank accounts. Officials will also be able to request banking details from millions of benefit claimants to check they're entitled to their payments.

The Public Authorities (Fraud, Error, and Recovery) Act received Royal assent in the House of Lords yesterday. The DWP has stated it will use these direct withdrawal powers against "benefit cheats, fraudsters and debtors who can afford to repay but refuse".

The new laws even give powers to cancel someone's driving licence if the DWP tries to recover money but fails, reports The Mirror . These direct a

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