DWP sends 'last time' warning to all state pensioners over payment

All pensioners and their loved ones are being urged to be on their guard over the coming weeks over scam texts. Criminals are stepping up their efforts to con older people as Winter Fuel Payments will soon be paid out.

Payments are set to go out to around 1.5 million pensioners from November but messages are also targeting those who will no longer get the support this year after it was made means-tested. Some texts may claim to be from the Government, requesting details so people can be paid the winter fuel money or other grants.

They will often include a link where people are prompted to enter personal information. Pensioners are being reminded never to do this and always be cautious about any messages like this.

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One example is a message claiming to be from the UK Government Living Allowance Office which says it can replace a "winter heating subsidy" for a different payment. It then asks recipients to apply via a link.

Elsewhere, a victim reported receiving the following message: "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.

"We will reopen applications. Please apply for your living subsidy in the link as soon as possible after receiving the information.” Winter Fuel Payments, worth up to £300, will be paid into bank accounts from November.

Previously, the money was paid to all pensioners. But only those on Pension Credit and certain other benefits will get the support.