With colder days on the horizon, many pensioners will soon receive their Winter Fuel Payment, a vital support when heating bills start to rise. But as that help rolls out, fraudsters are ramping up efforts to exploit it. Recent data shows scam referrals have leapt by a staggering 153 per cent over the last week of September compared to the week before.
The scam surge
These scams typically arrive via SMS or text message, with the fraudster posing as a government or tax official claiming you need to “apply” or “confirm details” to receive your payment. Recipients might be prompted to click a link, enter personal data or bank account details, or even make a payment upfront.
But here is the key point: you never have to apply or confirm anything. Winter Fuel Payments are made automatically to those eligible.
These messages had been trending down after a peak in June, but they are now increasing again just in time for payments to land in bank accounts next month. The timing is no coincidence.
Official warnings and advice
Pat McFadden, the Work and Pensions Secretary, issued a clear warning:
“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.”
Jonathan Silvester, HMRC’s Digital Defence Lead, added that people should not let themselves be rushed. If someone pressures you to act immediately, it is a red flag. Never give personal or financial details or click on suspicious links or attachments.
Independent Age, a charity supporting older people, emphasised that scammers are targeting those already anxious about paying their bills. The messages can be unsettling, implying that the recipient must act to receive what is rightfully theirs.
What you can do
Here is how to protect yourself and how to help warn others:
- Do not respond to texts asking you to “apply” or “confirm”. If a message mentions Winter Fuel Payments and asks you to do something, it is almost certainly fake.
- Never share bank details or personal information. The government will never ask for that by text.
- Forward suspicious texts to 7726. This helps telecom providers block the numbers.
- Delete the message and do not click any links or attachments.
- Report suspicious contact. For scams mimicking HMRC, forward emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk; for calls or texts, report via GOV.UK.
- Check eligibility through the official government website if unsure. Payments are automatic and confirmed by letter in October or November.
Final thought
Each time the government offers new financial support, scammers see an opportunity. The Winter Fuel Payment is no exception. With the surge in scam texts, it is more important than ever to stay alert, understand how the genuine system works, and share the warning with friends and family. No one should lose money to a scam disguised as help.