Based on looking at the website, Citizensadvice.org.uk appears to be a legitimate and comprehensive resource offering free, independent, and confidential advice on a wide range of issues.
The site emphasizes support for individuals in England, with clear navigation to equivalent services for Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
Its primary focus is on empowering people with the knowledge they need to resolve their problems, covering areas from debt and benefits to consumer rights and housing.
Here’s an overall review summary:
- Website Authority: Appears highly authoritative, backed by a long-standing organization.
- Content Scope: Extensive, covering legal, financial, and consumer advice.
- User Experience: Clear navigation, intuitive search function, and relevant popular content highlights.
- Transparency: Provides information on its mission, impact, and how to volunteer or donate.
- Ethical Considerations: Focuses on providing free public service, aligning with Islamic principles of helping those in need and promoting justice. No clear issues with Riba, gambling, or other forbidden practices.
- Geographic Focus: Primarily UK-centric, specifically England, with links to other UK nations.
The website’s detailed offerings, such as guides on “Get help with the cost of living,” “Grants and benefits to help you pay your energy bills,” and “If something you ordered hasn’t arrived,” demonstrate a practical and user-oriented approach.
The emphasis on transparency through sections like “Policy, research and campaigns” and “Find out about the impact of our advice” further solidifies its credibility.
Furthermore, the prominent call for volunteers underscores a community-driven model, which is highly commendable.
The direct links to specific advice areas like citizensadvice.org.uk/chat implied by “Search for advice” and direct help context, citizensadvice.org.uk benefits, citizensadvice.org.uk pip, citizensadvice.org.uk email for contact, citizensadvice.org.uk divorce, citizensadvice.org.uk/helptoclaim, citizensadvice.org.uk jobs volunteer roles, citizensadvice.org.uk/energy, and citizensadvice.org.uk consumer demonstrate a well-structured and accessible platform for a broad spectrum of inquiries.
Here are some alternatives focused on ethical, non-edible products or services that align with beneficial, practical assistance, given that Citizens Advice is a public service rather than a commercial product:
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- Key Features: Provides free or low-cost legal assistance to those who cannot afford it, often focusing on civil matters like housing, employment, and family law.
- Average Price: Free or income-based.
- Pros: Crucial for access to justice. supports vulnerable populations. aligns with principles of equity.
- Cons: Often limited resources and long waiting lists. scope of services can vary by location.
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Community Support Organizations:
- Key Features: Local non-profits offering a range of assistance from food banks and housing support to job training and social services.
- Average Price: Free.
- Pros: Direct, localized help. builds community resilience. addresses immediate needs.
- Cons: Funding can be inconsistent. services might be narrowly focused.
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- Key Features: Books, workshops, and online platforms dedicated to teaching personal finance, budgeting, and debt management.
- Average Price: Varies from free online resources to paid courses/books e.g., $10-$50 for a book.
- Pros: Empowers individuals with long-term skills. promotes financial independence ethically.
- Cons: Requires self-discipline and commitment to implement. information overload can be a challenge.
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- Key Features: Government bodies or non-profits that advocate for consumer rights, handle complaints, and provide information on scams and unfair practices.
- Pros: Protects individuals from exploitation. enforces fair market practices. helps resolve disputes.
- Cons: Bureaucratic processes can be slow. enforcement power varies.
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Online Educational Platforms Skills-Based:
- Key Features: Websites offering courses in practical skills like coding, writing, graphic design, or home maintenance.
- Average Price: Varies widely, from free courses to subscriptions $15-$100/month.
- Pros: Enhances employability. fosters self-reliance. accessible from anywhere.
- Cons: Requires self-motivation. quality can vary. might not always lead to immediate job placement.
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- Key Features: Platforms connecting individuals with volunteer opportunities in their local communities or online, supporting various causes.
- Pros: Promotes civic engagement and altruism. builds social capital. provides practical experience.
- Cons: Time commitment required. might not directly solve personal problems.
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- Key Features: Offer free access to books, internet, educational workshops, and sometimes legal clinics or job search assistance.
- Pros: Comprehensive resource hub. community-centric. accessible to all.
- Cons: Resources might be limited in smaller towns. physical presence required for most services.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Citizensadvice.org.uk Review & First Look
Citizensadvice.org.uk serves as the digital front door for the Citizens Advice network in England, an organization with a venerable history dating back to 1939. This website is a cornerstone for individuals seeking free, impartial, and confidential advice on a bewildering array of life’s challenges.
From the moment you land on the homepage, the intention is clear: to empower users with information to navigate complex issues like debt, housing, employment, and consumer rights.
The website design prioritizes accessibility and ease of use, with a prominent search bar and clearly categorized popular content, such as “Get help with the cost of living” and “Check what benefits you can get.” This immediate clarity helps users quickly pinpoint relevant advice, which is crucial when dealing with stressful personal matters.
Initial Impressions of Design and Usability
The website’s design is functional and straightforward, prioritizing information delivery over flashy aesthetics. It employs a clean layout with ample white space, making the text legible and less overwhelming. The color scheme is professional and calming, consistent with a trustworthy public service. Navigation is intuitive, featuring clear headings and logical pathways to different advice areas. For instance, the “See advice for Northern Ireland,” “See advice for Scotland,” and “See advice for Wales” links are immediately visible, addressing the varying legal frameworks across the UK. This thoughtful localization is a significant asset, preventing users from getting misdirected by advice specific to England when their needs lie elsewhere.
Scope of Information and Support Offered
The sheer breadth of topics covered on citizensadvice.org.uk is impressive. It acts as a comprehensive knowledge hub, addressing everything from welfare benefits like citizensadvice.org.uk PIP entitlements to intricate details about citizensadvice.org.uk divorce proceedings and consumer disputes. The site includes practical guides on topics such as “How to read your smart electricity meter” and advice if “something you ordered hasn’t arrived,” showcasing its commitment to everyday problems. Users can even find information on citizensadvice.org.uk jobs, primarily volunteer roles, indicating a community-driven model where public contribution is valued and essential for service delivery. This wide scope ensures that a significant portion of common public inquiries can be addressed directly through the website’s resources.
Citizensadvice.org.uk Features
The functionality of Citizensadvice.org.uk extends beyond static information provision.
It incorporates several features designed to enhance user engagement and facilitate access to help, making it a robust platform for public advisory services.
These features underscore the organization’s commitment to delivering timely and relevant support to individuals facing diverse challenges.
Interactive Tools and Checkers
One of the most valuable aspects of Citizensadvice.org.uk is its array of interactive tools and checkers. Cityfibre.com Review
These are designed to provide personalized guidance based on user input.
For instance, the “Check what benefits you can get” tool allows individuals to input their circumstances and receive tailored information on potential entitlements.
Similarly, resources for “Check if you can pay less council tax” provide a pathway for users to understand their eligibility for reductions.
These tools are crucial for individuals trying to navigate the complexities of the UK welfare and tax systems, offering a more dynamic experience than simply reading static advice pages.
They empower users to assess their situation and take informed steps.
Policy, Research, and Campaigns
Beyond direct advice, Citizensadvice.org.uk actively engages in policy, research, and campaigns. This section, accessible via “See our latest campaigns” and “Read our policy research work,” demonstrates the organization’s commitment to systemic change, not just individual problem-solving. By collecting data from its advice services, Citizens Advice identifies common issues and advocates for improvements in policy and legislation. This proactive approach ensures that the root causes of problems faced by individuals are addressed at a broader level. For example, insights gained from numerous inquiries about citizensadvice.org.uk energy issues might inform campaigns for fairer utility pricing or better consumer protections in the energy sector. This dual role of providing direct advice and driving policy change is a significant strength.
Community Engagement and Volunteering
The website prominently features opportunities for community engagement, most notably through its “Volunteer with us” section.
With over 14,000 highly trained volunteers supporting the delivery of their service, Citizens Advice relies heavily on public participation.
This model of community involvement is not only cost-effective for a charitable organization but also fosters a sense of collective responsibility and mutual aid.
The call to action for volunteers from “a range of backgrounds” highlights an inclusive approach, reinforcing the idea that practical support is a shared endeavor. Radiusconnectsolutions.com Review
This aspect of the website, alongside “Find your local Citizens Advice” by postcode, underscores the deep connection between the digital platform and the local, on-the-ground support offered by the Citizens Advice bureaux across the UK.
Citizensadvice.org.uk Pros & Cons
When evaluating any online resource, it’s essential to weigh its strengths against its limitations.
Citizensadvice.org.uk, while highly commendable in its mission and execution, presents a distinct set of pros and cons, particularly when viewed from the perspective of an ethical and comprehensive review.
Advantages of Citizensadvice.org.uk
The primary advantage of Citizensadvice.org.uk lies in its unparalleled authority and trustworthiness. As a long-established charitable organization, Citizens Advice has built decades of credibility. The advice provided is independent, impartial, and confidential, ensuring users receive unbiased guidance. The breadth of information is vast, covering everything from citizensadvice.org.uk benefits and housing to consumer rights and immigration advice e.g., “How changes to immigration rules might affect you”. This makes it a one-stop-shop for a multitude of life’s challenges. Furthermore, the website’s user-friendly design and clear navigation make complex information accessible to a wide audience, including those who may be distressed or unfamiliar with legal jargon. The explicit links for citizensadvice.org.uk/chat though not directly a chat link, it refers to avenues for direct support and advice, often implying webchat or phone lines based on context further enhance accessibility. Finally, the emphasis on free service aligns perfectly with ethical principles of helping those in need without financial burden, contrasting sharply with predatory services that exploit vulnerable individuals. The strong commitment to policy research and campaigning also means that the advice isn’t just reactive but also contributes to proactive systemic improvements.
Limitations of Citizensadvice.org.uk
Despite its many strengths, Citizensadvice.org.uk does have some limitations. While the website offers extensive information, it is primarily UK-centric, specifically tailored to England, with separate pathways for Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. This makes it less relevant for an international audience seeking similar advice. Although comprehensive, the advice is generalized and cannot replace personalized legal or financial counsel for highly complex or unique situations. Users are often directed to contact their local Citizens Advice bureau for specific, in-depth support, which might involve waiting times or limited availability. The reliance on volunteer support for direct services, while commendable, can sometimes lead to variability in immediate availability or depth of assistance depending on local office capacity. While the website is excellent for information, those requiring immediate crisis intervention might find the digital platform a first step rather than the ultimate solution, requiring follow-up phone calls or in-person visits.
Ethical Standing of Citizensadvice.org.uk
From an ethical standpoint, Citizensadvice.org.uk stands out as an exemplary model of a public service organization.
Its foundational principles and operational practices align strongly with values that promote societal well-being and justice, making it a highly recommendable resource.
Alignment with Public Good and Social Justice
Citizensadvice.org.uk is explicitly dedicated to the public good. Its core mission is to provide free, independent, and confidential advice to help people resolve their legal, money, and other problems. This aligns with fundamental Islamic principles of social justice Adl, mutual cooperation Ta’awun, and helping the needy. The organization does not charge for its services, ensuring that vital assistance is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial status. This contrasts sharply with commercial entities that may exploit vulnerability. By empowering individuals with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities, such as understanding citizensadvice.org.uk PIP entitlements or navigating citizensadvice.org.uk consumer disputes, Citizens Advice directly contributes to a more equitable society. Their policy work, which aims to improve laws and public services, further underscores their commitment to systemic justice. Data from their annual reports consistently shows millions of people helped, leading to significant financial gains for individuals and improved well-being. For example, in 2022-2023, Citizens Advice helped 2.6 million people and unlocked £294 million in financial gains for clients. Smartbuyglasses.com Review
Absence of Forbidden Practices
A thorough review of Citizensadvice.org.uk’s homepage and stated mission reveals no engagement in practices considered forbidden in Islam. There is no promotion or involvement with Riba interest-based transactions, as they provide debt advice aimed at resolution rather than perpetuating interest-bearing loans. There are no elements of gambling, alcohol, or illicit substances. The advice offered is practical, lawful, and aimed at empowering individuals to live better, more stable lives within societal norms. The organization’s funding model is based on grants, government contracts, and donations, which are all permissible means of support. The focus is on providing information and advocacy, rather than selling products or services that might fall under unethical categories. This commitment to transparency and adherence to a non-commercial, public service model reinforces its strong ethical standing.
How to Access Help on Citizensadvice.org.uk
Navigating a website for urgent advice can be challenging, but Citizensadvice.org.uk has streamlined the process to make it as accessible as possible.
Understanding the various pathways to get help is key to maximizing the utility of this resource.
Navigating the Website for Specific Advice
The most straightforward way to find specific advice on Citizensadvice.org.uk is by utilizing the prominent search bar at the top of the homepage. Users can type in keywords like “benefits,” “PIP,” “divorce,” “energy bills,” or “council tax” to quickly access relevant articles and guides. The website also organizes its content into easily navigable categories, which are often highlighted under “Popular content” or accessible via main menu links. For example, clicking on “Get help with the cost of living” immediately directs users to comprehensive resources on managing finances during economic hardship. The “Check what benefits you can get” and “Extra money and help PIP entitles you to” sections are also clearly signposted, allowing for direct access to crucial information. The site’s internal linking is robust, guiding users from general overviews to detailed explanations and practical steps.
Contacting Citizens Advice Directly
While the website provides extensive self-help resources, there are situations where direct contact with an advisor is necessary.
Citizensadvice.org.uk offers multiple avenues for this, although the specific methods can vary by location and availability. The most common methods include:
- Phone Helplines: Dedicated national and local helplines are available for general advice, benefits, debt, and consumer issues. These numbers are usually found by searching for specific topics or through the “Find your local Citizens Advice” tool, which provides contact details for local bureaux.
- Webchat: For certain topics, citizensadvice.org.uk/chat or similar webchat services linked from specific advice pages allows users to connect with an advisor online in real-time. This is often available during specific hours and can be a convenient option for quick queries or initial guidance.
- Email: While direct citizensadvice.org.uk email addresses for general inquiries are less common, specific advice pages or local bureaux may provide email contact options for particular cases or follow-up questions.
- In-Person Appointments: For complex issues, users can often find and contact their local Citizens Advice bureau via the “Find your local Citizens Advice” search by postcode or town. These local offices offer face-to-face appointments, providing in-depth, personalized advice. This is particularly valuable for intricate cases like citizensadvice.org.uk divorce or significant citizensadvice.org.uk consumer disputes, where detailed document review and sustained support are required.
It’s important for users to check the specific contact options available for their local area, as resources and availability can differ across the network.
Citizensadvice.org.uk for Specific Needs
Citizensadvice.org.uk is designed to cater to a diverse array of specific needs, providing targeted advice that addresses the nuances of different life circumstances. Mrkeyshop.com Review
The website’s structure and content reflect a deep understanding of common public challenges.
Support for Benefits and Welfare
A cornerstone of Citizensadvice.org.uk’s offerings is its comprehensive support for benefits and welfare. Millions of individuals in the UK rely on benefits, and navigating the system can be incredibly complex. The website provides detailed guides on various benefits, including Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance ESA, and Personal Independence Payment PIP. Specific pages like “Check what benefits you can get” and “Extra money and help PIP entitles you to” are invaluable. They offer information on eligibility criteria, how to apply, what to do if a claim is rejected, and how to challenge decisions. The site also covers the intricacies of citizensadvice.org.uk/helptoclaim, assisting users with the Universal Credit application process, which can be daunting for many. This comprehensive coverage helps ensure that individuals receive the financial support they are entitled to, crucial for maintaining stability, especially during times of economic hardship.
Guidance on Housing and Debt
Another critical area where Citizensadvice.org.uk provides extensive assistance is housing and debt. These issues are often intertwined and can lead to significant distress. The website offers practical advice on topics such as:
- Eviction and Homelessness: Guidance on tenant rights, challenging unfair evictions, and finding emergency housing.
- Rent Arrears: Strategies for dealing with rent debt, negotiating with landlords, and accessing financial support.
- Mortgage Problems: Information on options for homeowners struggling with mortgage payments.
- Council Tax: Advice on understanding council tax bills, checking if you can pay less council tax, and dealing with arrears.
- Debt Management: Comprehensive guides on various debt solutions, including debt relief orders, bankruptcy, and negotiating payment plans with creditors. This section is particularly valuable for individuals facing financial distress, offering clear, actionable steps to regain control. The advice is always geared towards ethical and sustainable solutions, avoiding any promotion of interest-based loans or unsustainable debt cycles.
Consumer Rights and Energy Advice
Citizensadvice.org.uk is also a leading resource for consumer rights. In an increasingly complex marketplace, consumers often face issues ranging from faulty goods to unfair contracts. The website empowers individuals with knowledge about their rights, including:
- Faulty Goods and Services: What to do if “something you ordered hasn’t arrived” or if a product is not as described.
- Scams: Identifying and reporting scams, providing crucial protection against financial fraud.
- Contracts and Warranties: Understanding terms and conditions and what to do when disputes arise.
Furthermore, with rising costs and environmental concerns, citizensadvice.org.uk/energy provides vital advice on energy-related matters. This includes:
- Understanding Energy Bills: Guides like “How to read your smart electricity meter” help consumers decipher their statements.
- Energy Efficiency: Tips and resources for reducing energy consumption.
- Grants and Benefits: Information on “Grants and benefits to help you pay your energy bills,” assisting vulnerable households in affording their utilities. This proactive approach to consumer and energy advice helps individuals navigate essential services and protect their financial well-being.
Citizensadvice.org.uk Alternatives
While Citizensadvice.org.uk is an excellent resource, individuals in other regions or those seeking complementary support might look for alternatives.
Since Citizens Advice provides public service advice, alternatives often fall into similar categories of legal aid, community support, or government services.
Global and Local Public Service Equivalents
Globally, many countries have their own versions of independent advisory services or legal aid organizations. For instance, in the United States, organizations like Legal Aid Societies across various states provide free legal assistance to low-income individuals. Similarly, non-profit credit counseling agencies offer debt management advice without charging fees. In Canada, organizations like Legal Aid Ontario or Community Legal Education Ontario CLEO provide similar public legal information and services. Australia has Community Legal Centres and Legal Aid Commissions. While these alternatives might not have a single, unified online portal like Citizensadvice.org.uk, they serve the same fundamental purpose of empowering citizens through knowledge and support. Each country’s specific legal and welfare framework dictates the precise nature of these services, but their underlying mission of providing free, impartial advice remains consistent.
Specialized Advisory Services
Beyond broad public service organizations, there are numerous specialized advisory services that focus on particular areas of need. Astroline.today Review
These can act as excellent complementary resources or primary alternatives depending on the specific issue at hand:
- Debt Charities: Organizations like StepChange Debt Charity or National Debtline in the UK and their equivalents globally specialize exclusively in debt advice, offering more in-depth solutions and direct negotiation with creditors.
- Housing Charities: Shelter in the UK, for example, focuses solely on housing and homelessness issues, providing expert advice and advocacy for tenants and homeowners.
- Consumer Rights Organizations: Specific consumer protection bodies or ombudsmen like the Financial Ombudsman Service or the Energy Ombudsman in the UK handle disputes within their respective sectors, often after initial attempts to resolve issues with the provider.
- Immigration Advice Services: For complex immigration matters, specialized immigration law firms or non-profits offer detailed legal advice that goes beyond the general information provided by Citizens Advice, such as those covered under “How changes to immigration rules might affect you.”
- Mental Health Support Organizations: While Citizens Advice can direct people to mental health resources, dedicated charities like Mind or Samaritans in the UK provide specialized support for mental well-being, which is often intertwined with financial or legal problems.
These specialized alternatives provide focused expertise, which can be beneficial for individuals with highly specific or complex challenges that require a into a particular area of law or public service.
FAQ
What is Citizensadvice.org.uk?
Citizensadvice.org.uk is the official website for Citizens Advice, a charity in England that provides free, independent, confidential advice to help people resolve their legal, money, and other problems.
Is Citizensadvice.org.uk legitimate?
Yes, Citizensadvice.org.uk is a highly legitimate and trusted source of information and advice in the UK, backed by a long-standing charitable organization.
What kind of advice does Citizensadvice.org.uk offer?
Citizensadvice.org.uk offers advice on a wide range of issues, including benefits, debt, housing, employment, consumer rights, family law, immigration, and discrimination.
Can I get help with benefits on Citizensadvice.org.uk?
Yes, Citizensadvice.org.uk provides extensive information and tools to help users understand, check eligibility for, and apply for various benefits, including PIP and Universal Credit.
How do I contact Citizens Advice through their website?
While direct email for general inquiries is rare, you can find contact options like phone helplines, webchat citizensadvice.org.uk/chat, where available, and details for local bureaux by searching your postcode or town on their site.
Does Citizensadvice.org.uk provide legal advice for divorce?
Yes, Citizensadvice.org.uk offers comprehensive guidance on divorce proceedings, including legal aspects, financial implications, and arrangements for children, typically directing users to further support for specific cases.
Is there a webchat service available on Citizensadvice.org.uk?
Yes, Citizens Advice offers webchat services for certain topics, and links are usually found on specific advice pages or through their contact section, though availability might vary. Shurgard.com Review
Can Citizensadvice.org.uk help with energy bills?
Yes, Citizensadvice.org.uk provides detailed advice on energy supply, understanding bills, energy efficiency, and information on grants and benefits to help pay energy costs citizensadvice.org.uk/energy.
Does Citizensadvice.org.uk offer support for consumer issues?
Absolutely, Citizensadvice.org.uk has a dedicated section for consumer rights, covering topics like faulty goods, scams, contracts, and what to do if something you ordered hasn’t arrived citizensadvice.org.uk consumer.
How can I find a local Citizens Advice office?
You can find your local Citizens Advice office by entering your postcode or town into the “Find your local Citizens Advice” search bar on their homepage.
What is Citizensadvice.org.uk/helptoclaim?
Citizensadvice.org.uk/helptoclaim refers to the section that provides assistance and guidance for individuals applying for Universal Credit, helping them navigate the application process.
Does Citizensadvice.org.uk offer jobs?
Citizensadvice.org.uk primarily lists volunteer roles citizensadvice.org.uk jobs within their network, supporting the delivery of their services across local Citizens Advice and Witness Service locations.
Is the advice on Citizensadvice.org.uk tailored for Northern Ireland, Scotland, or Wales?
Citizensadvice.org.uk primarily provides advice for England but clearly signposts users to specific websites for Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales to ensure they receive advice relevant to their regional laws.
Can I make a donation to Citizens Advice via the website?
Yes, the website has a prominent “Make a donation” link citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/donate/ where you can contribute to support their charitable work.
Does Citizensadvice.org.uk cover immigration advice?
Yes, Citizensadvice.org.uk provides information on immigration rules and how changes might affect individuals, including specific pages like “How changes to immigration rules might affect you.”
What is PIP and how does Citizensadvice.org.uk help with it?
PIP stands for Personal Independence Payment, a benefit for people with long-term health conditions or disabilities.
Citizensadvice.org.uk offers comprehensive guides on eligibility, application, and maximizing “Extra money and help PIP entitles you to.” Prozis.com Review
Is the advice on Citizensadvice.org.uk always up-to-date?
Citizens Advice is committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information, regularly reviewing and updating their content to reflect current laws and regulations.
Does Citizensadvice.org.uk provide policy research?
Yes, Citizensadvice.org.uk has a section dedicated to “Read our policy research work,” showcasing their efforts to influence policy and improve public services based on their advisory data.
How does Citizens Advice measure the impact of its advice?
Citizens Advice tracks the impact of its advice through its “Find out about the impact of our advice” section, detailing how their support leads to financial gains for clients and broader societal benefits.
Can I get help if something I ordered hasn’t arrived?
Yes, Citizensadvice.org.uk offers specific guidance on consumer rights if an item you ordered hasn’t arrived, including steps to take if you suspect a scam.
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