As the colder months approach, fraudsters are once again targeting households with fake messages about Winter Fuel Payments. Between April and September 2025, Action Fraud received 2,790 reports of scams linked to Winter Fuel Payments, with victims losing over £27,000 in total.
These scams often arrive as convincing text messages claiming that you need to “apply” or “confirm your details” to receive your payment. Do not be fooled — these messages are fake.
Winter Fuel Payments Are Automatic
If you are eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment, it will be paid to you automatically.
You never need to apply or respond to a message to receive it.
So, if you receive a text, email, or message asking you to click a link, update your information, or confirm your eligibility — it’s a scam.
How to Stay Safe
Never trust contact details supplied in a suspicious message.
If you’re unsure whether a message is genuine, contact the organisation directly using the phone number or website listed on their official*site.
Remember: Banks and legitimate organisations will never ask for personal information through unsolicited texts or emails.
Do not click any links or provide personal or financial details.
Report Suspicious Messages
If you receive a suspicious SMS or RCS message, you can report it for free by forwarding it to: 7726
This helps mobile networks shut down fraudulent numbers and protect others.
If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
Act quickly:
Contact your bank immediately.
Report the incident to Action Fraud online at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.
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