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The Department for Work and Pensions has warned state pensioners to "stay alert" after a 153 PER CENT rise in scams. The Winter Fuel Allowance, worth £300, is being paid to nine million state pensioners following a rule change.

Labour Party Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: " 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.

"These despicable attempts by criminals to target people are on the rise. We are raising awareness to make it harder for fraudsters to succeed. If you receive a suspicious message about Winter Fuel Payments, don’t engage - forward it to 7726 and delete it immediately.

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