Beware of Winter Fuel Payment text

I received the message, I and hubby had already received a letter saying what we were getting, it is a scam of course trying to get your bank details.

The scammers are definitely short of money for Christmas this year.
After a break of some time I have three calls on my mobile from “ bank security” one yesterday and two already this morning.
The laugh is that it is the same recording which is always £300 to Amazon and a larger sum from an overseas transaction.

Reported

It’s good that this has been posted on GN several times since the announcement of a WFA earlier in the year.
Hopefully, no-one here will be caught out and be able to pass on the information to others/friends/family who are unsure, having received one of the scam texts.

DH had this and panicked until I showed him proof on gov website that you don't need to apply. Can see how he could have been caught out of he was on his own.

CornflowerBlue

I had this text too, and was very wary, because it implied that if I didn't reply immediately, I would be too late to apply! I checked on the Internet which said if you are entitled, you don't have to do anything, you will automatically get a letter. Sure enough a (genuine) letter did come a week later saving I was automatically entitled. The text is definitely a scam. I dont trust anything these days, I always check!

Same here, CornflowerBlue Our texts sound identical. I hope some won't be panicked in to clicking on links thinking they are going to be too late for the payment.

Yes, it is most definitely a scam. DWP send out a letter, you do not need to fill out any forms or apply for it. We got our letter from them yesterday.

Just had a thought if anyone has health problems or lives with someone who does make sure you are on your utilities priority list . Just give them a ring they will ask a few questions but it means if your power goes out and can't get it on quickly they will send out things to keep you warm . Water companies will deliver bottled water if you are without water .

Sarnia thank you for the warning . I bock texts like this that I know aren't real. DWP always sends out letter.

Had email from my energy company but knew it was real they have added the £150 warm home discount to my account .

This scam has been around for some weeks now and widely reported.
Many people have had their official letter now telling them the amount they will receive and saying payment will be made in November or December.

Oddly enough, I had to make a phone call to DWP yesterday regarding another matter. The recorded message that plays when you get through on the phone actually mentions a text scam around WFP, it states that if you’re eligible you’ll receive a letter and NOT to follow the instructions on the text.

I had this text too, and was very wary, because it implied that if I didn't reply immediately, I would be too late to apply! I checked on the Internet which said if you are entitled, you don't have to do anything, you will automatically get a letter. Sure enough a (genuine) letter did come a week later saving I was automatically entitled. The text is definitely a scam. I dont trust anything these days, I always check!

I’ve had my letter too.

I’ve actually had a letter in the post this morning about mine.

Thank you Sarnia. A most timely warning.