The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an urgent warning to state pensioners about scam text messages.
One such message, purporting to be from the UK Government Living Allowance Office, falsely informs recipients of the replacement of a “winter heating subsidy” with a different payment.
A concerned pensioner reported receiving a message stating: “UK Government Living Allowance Office Last Time Reminder: Due to the reduction of winter heating subsidy, you can no longer receive it, and the UK government has decided to advance the living subsidy to allow you to survive the winter.”
The message further urged: “We will reopen applications. Please apply for your living subsidy in the link as soon as possible after receiving the information.”
The link provided in the message leads to a fraudulent website designed to mimic official government pages, tricking victims into revealing sensitive information.
The official advice highlights that scam texts may pressure or threaten the recipient, among other warning signs.
Pensioners are also cautioned to be vigilant if they receive unexpected requests for personal details, prompts to transfer funds, or offers of refunds, tax rebates, or grants.
The DWP advises seniors across the UK to report any suspicious websites, emails, phone numbers, calls, or texts, and to avoid sharing private information or engaging with the content if authenticity is in doubt, reports Birmingham Live.
The Government statement reads: “Forward suspicious emails to [email protected]. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) will investigate it. Forward suspicious text messages to 7726 – it’s free. This will report the message to your mobile phone provider.”
“Report scam or misleading adverts to the Advertising Standards Authority. You can report adverts found online, including in search engines, websites or on social media.”
