WEEKLY FRAUD UPDATE FROM WEST MERCIA POLICE - ECONOMIC CRIME UNIT - 17/06/2025

WINTER FUEL PAYMENTS

The Government recently announced the reinstatement of Winter Fuel Payments to eligible pensioners with an income lower than £35,000.

So once again the criminals have seen an opportunity to defraud unsuspecting victims by sending texts and emails claiming to be from the Department of Work and Pensions – DWP.

The first clue that these are a Scam is the fact they refer to an “Energy Allowance” in the heading, as opposed to Winter Fuel Payments.

Secondly, they infer that you will have to apply by clicking the link in the message with a very short application period, so using the usual tactic of creating a sense of urgency for potential victims to sign up.

DWP will never ask you to apply for the Winter Fuel Payment, all eligible pensioners will be paid automatically by DWP and there is no need to provide any details or complete any application forms. 

Please feel free to share these messages with any vulnerable friends, relatives or neighbours, especially anyone of pensionable age.

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If you’ve fallen for fraud

Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk

Scam Text messages can be forwarded to 7726 to help phone providers take early action and block numbers that generate spam on their networks.

You can also report fraudulent mobile calls by texting 7726 with the word “Call” followed by the fraudster’s phone number.

Forward Fake Emails received to report@phishing.gov.uk

If you think your bank account or personal banking details have been used fraudulently, then use the short phone number - 159 - to contact the Fraud Prevention Department of most major UK banks.