DWP issues urgent scam warning to pensioners and benefit claimants
Report by Kelly Leonard for News Advertiser newspapers
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a fresh warning urging millions of people receiving State Pension, Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and other benefits to remain vigilant amid a rise in scam text messages designed to steal personal and financial information.
The alert comes as online fraudsters continue to exploit the cost of living crisis, impersonating government bodies such as the DWP and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to trick vulnerable individuals into handing over sensitive details.
In a message posted on its official social media channels, the DWP warned: “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.”
The warning applies to the 23.7 million people across Great Britain who currently receive at least one benefit from the DWP, including Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Attendance Allowance, and the contributory State Pension. Fraudsters have reportedly been sending texts about “unclaimed payments” or offering bogus application links for schemes such as the Winter Fuel Payment and Warm Home Discount.
The DWP stressed that genuine Winter Fuel Payments are issued automatically and do not require an application. Links sent via text message should be treated with caution, as official departments do not request claims in this manner.
Security experts advise recipients to avoid clicking on suspicious links and never to disclose bank details or passwords through unsolicited messages. Signs of a scam can include poor grammar, a sense of urgency, or unfamiliar sender information.
People are also being encouraged to check their bank statements regularly and to contact their bank immediately if any suspicious activity occurs. Most major banks now offer app-based features to freeze cards instantly in the event of suspected fraud.
If in doubt, claimants should contact the DWP or HMRC directly using official phone numbers listed on GOV.UK. Messages that seem out of character or too good to be true should always be treated with suspicion.
The government is urging anyone who receives a suspicious message to report it through the “report phishing” service on GOV.UK. Search: ‘avoid and report internet scams and phishing’.
With impersonation scams on the rise, especially those targeting older or vulnerable groups, the DWP’s message is simple: stay alert, question the source, and don’t click unless you’re sure.
( Image: Gov.uk 📸 )