The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a warning to Universal Credit claimants and other benefit recipients about scam emails and texts that aim to steal bank details. The alert comes as the government expands the Warm Home Discount scheme, which will provide £150 off energy bills to over six million households this winter.
Scammers are targeting individuals by pretending to be from the DWP or the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), asking them to apply for the discount or provide personal information. The DESNZ stresses that there is no need to apply for the scheme in England or Wales; eligible households will receive a letter between October and December and the discount will be applied automatically by their energy supplier.
A spokesperson for the DESNZ said: "We’re aware of scam texts claiming to be about the scheme and asking for bank details, so we’re keen for those eligible to know those texts aren’t legitimate." They added: "Remember – there is no need to apply for the scheme in England or Wales. You will not be contacted by the government or Ofgem asking you to share your bank details to benefit."
The Warm Home Discount is being expanded this year, with an extra 2.7 million households becoming eligible. Those on means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Income Support may qualify if they are the named bill payer. The discount is applied directly to electricity bills, and recipients should not respond to any unsolicited messages about the scheme.
Fraud remains a significant issue, with scams costing UK victims an estimated £11.4 billion in 2024, according to the Global Anti-Scam Alliance. The DWP has been working to prevent fraudulent claims, including £1.9 billion lost to identity theft. Claimants are advised to stay vigilant and report any suspicious communications to Action Fraud.
