Scam warning issued as residents get winter payment texts

In images shared with North East Lincolnshire Council, the text messages warn the recipient to apply for their ‘Winter Heating Allowance’ before the deadline.

A website link, included in the texts, lead to a realistic imitation of the GOV.UK website where users are encouraged to enter personal details.

Councillor Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities at North East Lincolnshire Council, explained:

“These are sophisticated scams that could see residents lose their hard-earned money with just a few taps on their device.

“We know that people living in other parts of the Yorkshire and Humberside region have received copies of this scam text, so we’re cautioning our residents to be vigilant.

“As always with things like this, the advice is really simple: don’t click. Instead, seek advice from official sources. Don’t rely on the information received in the text or email.”

Advice on the Winter Fuel Payment scheme is available at www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment.

To find out more about how to avoid scams, visit www.stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk.