A disturbing new trend is emerging across the UK as an increasing number of fathers are resorting to outright deception to avoid paying child maintenance. Investigations reveal that so-called 'deadbeat dads' are employing increasingly sophisticated and fraudulent methods to shirk their financial duties.
The DNA Test Scam
One of the most common tactics involves manipulating paternity tests. Fathers are deliberately submitting falsified DNA samples—often using a friend's saliva or hair—to the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) in an attempt to biologically disown the child. This cruel deception, if successful, legally absolves them of any financial responsibility.
Identity Fraud and the 'Disappearing Act'
Beyond fake tests, some fathers are engaging in complex identity fraud. They are adopting aliases, manipulating their income records, and even falsely declaring themselves as students or on benefits to significantly reduce their assessed payments. Others simply vanish, moving house frequently or working cash-in-hand jobs to become untraceable to authorities.
A System Under Strain
These actions place an immense strain on the CMS and, more critically, on the single parents left behind. Mothers report being pushed into poverty, forced to choose between heating and eating, while facing an uphill bureaucratic battle to prove paternity and secure the support their children are entitled to.
Calls for Stricter Enforcement
Charities and campaigners are now urging the government to crack down on this exploitation of the system. They are calling for stricter verification processes for DNA tests, greater powers for the CMS to investigate suspected fraud, and harsher penalties for those caught trying to deceive the system.
The emotional and financial damage inflicted on families is profound, turning what should be a simple matter of responsibility into a devastating game of cat and mouse.
