Suspected Winter fuel allowance text scam

The text claims to be offering people an extra £300 to help cover the costs of heating during the previous cold weather spell, stating that the deadline to sign up is Thursday, 16 January.

People are asked to follow a link and told the money will be within their account in one week.

The text reads: “DWP: The Department of Pension Protection has implemented a Winter cold weather allowance scheme during the ongoing snowfall, This is to help people pay extra heating bills in cold weather. The allowance Is £300. Applications must be completed by the January 16 deadline.”

Recipients are presented with the link before the following text. “Upon receipt of your application, it will be deposited into your bank account by the Winter Subsidy Payment Center within one week. May have a wonderful and warm Winter.”

Always be aware of scams and if you have received this text or a similar one, please report it to the National Cyber Security Centre at report@phishing.gov.uk or by forwarding it to 7726.