Winter Fuel Scam

Winter fuel scam - don't give fraudsters your financial or personal details

As we approach winter, scammers may contact you by text, email or phone, asking you to apply for a winter fuel payment or to visit a link to 'claim' it.

This is a scam.

Those who are eligible for this payment will receive it automatically.

What the fraudsters are actually doing is directing you to a fake government website to encourage you to give out your personal details - this will give them the information they need to access your bank accounts.

If you know someone who could be a potential target for this type of scam – please make them aware so they can protect themselves and their money.

Remember:

Government agencies will not ask for your bank details, PIN, or passwords over the phone, via text, or in an email

Do not click on links in suspicious messages

Look for red flags. Scammers often create a sense of urgency, using phrases like ‘act now’ or ‘deadline approaching’

What to do if you’ve been affected:

If you've disclosed any financial information or lost money, please inform your bank immediately

Report to the police by calling 101 or completing an online reporting form here: https://orlo.uk/7YyXb

If you've been targeted by a scam, you can also contact Action Fraud: https://orlo.uk/pl4D5