Pensioners across the UK are at risk of falling victim to fraudulent text messages aimed at stealing their personal information and funds as they await essential winter support. Many individuals born before September 22, 1959, are set to receive £100 to £300 to help cover heating expenses during the colder months.
The Winter Fuel Payment, meant to assist with heating costs, will be automatically distributed to most eligible recipients without requiring any action on their part. Despite this, there has been an increase in reports of scams targeting vulnerable individuals by deceiving them with fake communications related to the Winter Fuel Payment.
Recent warnings from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) highlight a significant rise in scam reports, with a 153% surge in the final week of September compared to the previous week. Additionally, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has cautioned about the potential increase in deceptive texts related to the Winter Fuel Payment as the payment period approaches.
Joanna Elson, chief executive of Independent Age, expressed concern over scammers taking advantage of older individuals with low incomes by exploiting the Winter Fuel Payment. She emphasized that the Winter Fuel Payment is automatically distributed to eligible recipients, and any text messages requesting personal details are likely fraudulent.
To qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment, individuals must have been born before September 22, 1959, and reside in England or Wales. Payments are expected to be made automatically in November or December, with recipients receiving notification by letter. If payment is not received by January 28, 2026, individuals are advised to contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.
In response to the rise in scam attempts, the public is advised not to engage with suspicious text messages related to Winter Fuel Payments. Instead, texts should be forwarded to 77226 and then deleted. Officials stress that legitimate Winter Fuel Payments do not require any action from recipients and urge vigilance against fraudulent attempts to obtain personal information or money.