URGENT UPDATE: Thousands of pensioners are being targeted by fraudulent messages posing as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), warning of an “important legal notification” regarding the Winter Fuel Payment. Authorities have confirmed this alarming scam is spreading, as victims receive false texts urging them to submit applications for heating allowances.
The DWP is set to automatically distribute £100 to £300 to eligible individuals born before September 22, 1959, to assist with heating bills for winter 2025 to 2026. However, scammers are exploiting this benefit by sending texts that falsely claim recipients must take immediate action or risk losing their payments.
One such message states: “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 [date]. Applications received after this date cannot be accepted.”
These deceptive texts often include links to fake websites designed to mimic government pages, such as gov.winter-subv.com/dwp. The DWP warns that these texts are being dispatched randomly, impacting even those who do not qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment.
Officials are urging recipients to ignore such messages, refrain from clicking any links, and never provide personal or financial information. In a statement, Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden emphasized, “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.”
The DWP is collaborating with Action Fraud to combat these scams through social media awareness campaigns, while charities like Independent Age are working to ensure that accurate information reaches those who need it. Joanna Elson, Chief Executive of Independent Age, stated, “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.”
Pensioners are advised to report any suspicious texts by forwarding them to 7726 and deleting them immediately. The DWP will send out official letters by November 2025 detailing the amounts eligible recipients can expect to receive, as payments are scheduled between mid-November and December 2025.
This growing trend of scams is causing increased anxiety among older adults, many of whom already face challenges in affording heating during the winter. As the situation develops, it is crucial for all recipients to stay informed and vigilant against these fraudulent attempts.
Stay tuned for further updates as authorities continue to address this urgent issue. Share this information to help protect others from falling victim to these scams.
