A Facebook post helped expose a benefit claim that led to nearly £71,000 being paid out incorrectly.
Following the case, we look at how the DWP catches benefit cheats, what powers investigators have and the penalties people can face if they are found guilty of fraud.
The DWP says benefit fraud happens when someone deliberately provides incorrect information or fails to report a change in their circumstances in order to receive money.
This can include failing to declare a partner has moved in, not reporting earnings from work, understating savings or providing false information on a claim.
In the Blackpool case investigators found evidence that he had been living with a partner while claiming Universal Credit as a single person.
As part of their investigation, officials examined bank records and social media activity, including a Facebook photograph showing the couple becoming engaged.
How does the DWP catch benefit fraud?
The DWP uses information from a range of sources when investigating allegations.
Cases can be triggered by tip-offs from members of the public, reports from other government departments, data-matching exercises and information already held by the department.
Data-matching allows officials to compare details supplied on benefit claims against information held elsewhere to identify inconsistencies that may suggest a person is receiving more than they are entitled to.
Investigators can also examine financial records and publicly available social media content where it is relevant to an inquiry.
What happens when someone is investigated?
People suspected of benefit fraud may be invited to attend an "interview under caution".
This is a formal interview during which evidence can be put to a claimant and their responses can later be used in court proceedings.
Investigators then decide whether there is enough evidence to take further action.
What penalties can someone face?
If fraud is proven, claimants can be ordered to repay money they were not entitled to receive.
Depending on the circumstances, the DWP may also seek a financial penalty or refer a case for prosecution.
Courts can impose community orders, suspended prison sentences or immediate jail terms in more serious cases.
People who are convicted can also have some benefits reduced or stopped for a period of time.
Can anonymous reports be made?
Yes. The DWP says members of the public can report suspected benefit fraud anonymously online or through its National Benefit Fraud Hotline.
However, the department stresses that every allegation is assessed and investigated before any action is taken.
The DWP has repeatedly warned that benefit fraud is "not a victimless crime", arguing that money claimed dishonestly is taken away from funds intended to support those who genuinely need help.
£41,669.44 of funding from central Government was earmarked for Bolton Council to tackle the issue of benefit fraud.
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