URGENT UPDATE: Thousands of pensioners across the UK are receiving fraudulent messages claiming to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) regarding the Winter Fuel Payment. These scams, labeled as an “important legal notification,” are designed to trick vulnerable individuals into providing personal information.
The DWP is set to automatically distribute the Winter Fuel Payment, ranging from £100 to £300, to those born before September 22, 1959, to assist with heating costs for the winter of 2025 to 2026. However, scammers are sending texts urging recipients to apply urgently, creating a false sense of emergency.
These fraudulent messages often read: “Important Legal Notification: Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) – Winter Fuel Payment Reminder. Our records show that you have not submitted your application for the 2025-2026 Winter Fuel Payment. To receive the £300 allowance, you must submit your application by…” followed by a dangerously imminent deadline.
The texts include links that mimic official government sites but are designed to deceive. One such link directed users to a suspicious URL: gov.winter-subv.com/dwp. Many recipients of these messages do not qualify for the payment, highlighting the widespread nature of this scam.
Authorities confirm that the DWP is collaborating with Action Fraud and charities like Independent Age to raise awareness about this issue. Pat McFadden, the Work and Pensions Secretary, 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.” He urges anyone receiving such messages to forward them to 7726 and delete them immediately.
The Chief Executive of Independent Age, Joanna Elson, added, “Scammers are shamefully exploiting the Winter Fuel Payment to target older people living on low incomes.” She emphasized the importance of this entitlement as a lifeline for those facing financial difficulties during the colder months. Many older individuals are already anxious about affording heating, and these scams only add to their distress.
Eligible pensioners will receive a letter by November 2025, detailing their Winter Fuel Payment amount. Payments are scheduled to be made between mid-November and December, directly into the bank accounts of those who qualify—without the need for any application.
As the DWP works to combat these scams, they remind the public to stay vigilant. If you receive a suspicious message regarding the Winter Fuel Payment, act swiftly: do not engage with it, forward it to 7726, and delete it.
Stay informed and protect yourself from these fraudulent schemes that seek to exploit the most vulnerable in society. Share this urgent message with friends and family to ensure everyone is aware and safe.
