DWP issues urgent 'last time reminder' warning to state pensioners

The Department for Work and Pensions has issued a key update over scam text messages targeting state pensioners. A recent example of these fraudulent messages include one claiming to be from the UK Government Living Allowance Office which claims to replace a "winter heating subsidy" for a different payment.

One victim of this scam reported that they received this 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.” Official government guidance states that some indicitive signs of a scam text message include if it rushes you or is threatening.

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Other text messages to be wary of is if texts or messages are unexpected, if they ask for personal information like bank details, if they tell you to transfer money or if it offers a refund, tax rebate or grant, the DWP has also explained to older people in the UK.

The government said: "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.

"Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. 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."