Winter Fuel Payment Scam Text | How to Spot a Scam Text

A Winter Fuel Payment scam text typically pretends to offer assistance or confirm eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment but is actually trying to steal personal data or money.

🚨 What a Winter Fuel Payment Scam Text Might Look Like:

Here’s a typical example:

“GovUK: You are eligible for a £500 Winter Fuel Payment. Please update your details to receive payment: https://gov-uk-support.com“

Or:

“DWP: Your Winter Fuel Payment is on hold. Verify your identity here: https://secure-dwp-claim.com“

These messages are fake, and the links lead to phishing websites designed to steal information.

✅ How to Spot a Scam Text

1. Check the sender – Real messages from the DWP or HM Government won’t come from random mobile numbers or suspicious emails.

2. Spelling or grammar errors – Many scam messages have small typos or unnatural wording.

3. Links to non-official sites – Always hover (or tap and hold) on the link to see the actual URL. Government sites end in .gov.uk.

4. Pressure or urgency – Scammers often say things like “act now” or “your payment is on hold”.

5. Requests for personal info – Legitimate organizations won’t ask for your full bank details or National Insurance number via text.

Also Read : 07860054789 | Check Recent Scam Reports

✅ What to Do If You Get One

• Do not click any links.

• Do not reply.

• Report the message:

  • Forward it to 7726 (free scam text reporting service in the UK).

  • Report to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) via their website.

  • You can also report to Action Fraud (UK’s national reporting centre for fraud).

🛡️ How to Check If a Message Is Legitimate

• Visit the official government site directly: https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment

• Or call the Winter Fuel Payment Centre:
  UK: 0800 731 0160
  Outside the UK: +44 (0)191 218 7777