DWP issues warning to pensioners ahead of winter fuel payments View 2 Images

Pensioners are being urged to remain vigilant as fraudsters posing as government officials target Winter Fuel Payments ahead of next month's disbursements. Official statistics reveal that reports of scam text messages more than doubled at the end of September, a 153% increase in just one week, as criminals attempt to deceive older people into divulging their bank details.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have stated that these con artists are sending messages claiming recipients must "apply" for their Winter Fuel Payment, when in reality, the money is automatically paid out.

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: "If you get a text message about Winter Fuel

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