DWP winter fuel payment recipients issued urgent alert about new text message

Pensioners have been warned to look out for winter fuel payment text message scams following a surge in activity from opportunistic criminals. New data from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) showed reports of scam texts more than doubled in the last week of September when compared to the previous week.

The scams, which see fraudsters exploit pensioners by posing as Government officials processing Winter Fuel Payment applications, dropped off after a peak in June but are now increasing again ahead of next month's payments. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has reiterated that the winter fuel payment benefit will be made automatically, and the Government will never ask for bank details by text.

Anyone who receives a text message inviting them to apply for a payment should not engage with it and instead forward it to 7726.

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: "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. We are raising awareness to make it harder for fraudsters to succeed. If you receive a suspicious message about winter fuel payments, don't engage - forward it to 7726 and delete it immediately.

Joanna Elson CBE, chief executive at Independent Age said: "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.Our hel

"pline has received calls from older people who have been sent these fraudulent messages. Many of them are already anxious about being able to afford to heat their homes this winter, and these scam texts may wrongly lead them to believe they must take action to receive their payment."

She added: "The key message is clear: you do not need to do anything to receive your winter fuel payment. If you are eligible, it will be paid automatically.

Jonathan Silvester, HMRC's digital defence lead, said: "Scammers target individuals by attempting to take your money or access your personal information. I'm urging you to stay alert to their pressure tactics.

"Never let yourself be rushed. If someone contacts you relating to winter fuel payments, wanting you to urgently transfer money or give personal information, be on your guard. If a phone call, text or email is suspicious or unexpected, don't give out private information or reply, and don't download attachments or click on links. You can report any suspicious HMRC-related activity on GOV.UK , just search 'report an HMRC scam'.!

Winter fuel payments will automatically be paid into people's bank accounts with eligible pensioners receiving a letter in October or November saying how much they will receive. Payments will be made between mid-November and December 2025.