The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a stark warning to those claiming TWO benefits due to a surge in scam text messages and fraudulent communications. The alert specifically concerns individuals who claim Pension Credit and receive the £300 Winter Fuel Allowance.
Via its posts on social media platforms such as X and Facebook, the DWP cautioned: “Be aware of scam text messages claiming to be from @dwpgovuk. Always be careful about links and never share personal or financial details, only engage with trusted official sources.”
They urge anyone who comes across a suspicious text to report it through gov.uk using the search term ‘avoid and report internet scams and phishing’. The government’s website alerts users that “Some websites, emails or phone numbers look like they’re part of an official government service when they’re not, or claim to help more than they actually do.”
It also states, “Some make you pay for things that would be free or cheaper if you used the official Government service. Report misleading websites, emails, phone numbers, phone calls or text messages you think may be suspicious. Do not give out private information (such as bank details or passwords), reply to text messages, download attachments or click on any links in emails if you’re not sure they’re genuine.”
These fraudulent attempts have been duly reported for awareness by DWP Security, reports Birmingham Live.
The DWP continues to remind its customers to be alert, emphasizing that any legitimate link provided by them will direct to the GOV. UK portal, and provides guidance on how to respond if one receives a questionable call.
Firstly, pensioners and benefit recipients are being advised not to click on any links within these messages. They should also block the number from their mobile phones and report the text messages to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud reporting centre.
More information can be found on the Action Fraud website, as the charity has further explained to claimants.