Crime Alert – Scam Text Claiming to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)

Crime Alert – Scam Text Claiming to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)

We’ve received reports of scam text messages claiming to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) about the Winter Fuel Payment for 2025–2026.

The message says you’re eligible for a payment of £200–£300 and instructs you to “apply” via a link before a stated deadline (e.g. 2 October 2025).

This message is a scam.

Scammers use urgency and pressure tactics – such as deadlines and warnings of missed payments – to trick people into clicking on fake links or sharing personal and financial information.

What You Should Do

Do NOT click on the link in the message.

Do NOT share any personal or bank details — the real DWP will never ask you to apply or confirm details by text or email.

Delete the message immediately.

How to Check Genuine Eligibility

You can check whether you’re eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment safely and directly through the official government website:

Winter Fuel Payment: Eligibility - GOV.UK

Crime Prevention Advice

Be suspicious of unexpected texts or emails offering money or benefits.

Always check the website address (URL) — fake ones often include extra words, dashes, or unusual endings (like “.qpon” instead of “.gov.uk”).

If in doubt, contact the DWP directly using the contact details listed on the official GOV.UK website.

Report suspicious texts by forwarding them to 7726 (free of charge).

Stay alert and help protect others by spreading the word.

Remember: If it sounds urgent and too good to be true — it’s probably a scam.

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Wesley Smith
(Police, PCSO, Cherwell and West)