The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an urgent public warning to state pensioners across the UK about a sophisticated text message scam targeting Winter Fuel Payments.
How the Scam Operates
Fraudsters are sending out thousands of deceptive SMS messages disguised as official Winter Fuel Payment reminders. These texts falsely claim to be an "Important Legal Notification" from the DWP. The message insists that the recipient has not submitted their application for the 2025-2026 payment and must click a link to apply by an urgent deadline, often the same day or the next, to receive a £300 allowance.
Crucially, this is a lie. The genuine Winter Fuel Payment is automatically paid into the bank accounts of those who are eligible. If you qualify, you do not need to apply, contact anyone, or provide any details.
Spotting the Fraudulent Messages
The scam texts contain a link to a fake government website designed to steal personal and financial information. While the page may look official, the web address (URL) is a clear giveaway. One example seen by authorities tried to direct people to gov.winter-subv.com/dwp, which is not a legitimate UK government domain.
Labour's Work and Pensions Secretary, Pat McFadden, stated: "If you get a text message about Winter Fuel Payments, it's a scam. They will be made automatically, so you do not need to apply. These despicable attempts by criminals to target people are on the rise."
What You Need to Do
DWP officials and benefits advisors have issued clear instructions for anyone who receives one of these messages:
- Do not click on any links in the text message.
- Do not provide any personal or financial details.
- Forward the suspicious text to 7726, the free SMS service that enables your provider to investigate the fraud.
- Delete the message immediately after reporting it.
Joanna Elson, Chief Executive of Independent Age, highlighted the particular cruelty of this scam: "Scammers are shamefully exploiting the Winter Fuel Payment to target older people living on low incomes. This entitlement is a vital lifeline that helps protect those facing financial hardship during the colder months."
Eligibility for the real Winter Fuel Payment is for people born on or before 25 September 1959. The tax-free payment, which ranges from £100 to £300, is designed to help with heating costs and will be paid automatically without any action required from the pensioner.
