Fraudsters are preying on vulnerable households by sending fake text messages claiming to offer energy bill support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The sophisticated scam attempts to steal personal and financial information under the guise of government assistance.
How the Scam Works
The fraudulent messages appear to come from "DWP" and state recipients are eligible for energy bill support payments. Victims are directed to click a link and enter sensitive details including:
- Bank account information
- National Insurance numbers
- Personal identification details
Warning Signs to Watch For
Genuine DWP communications will never:
- Ask for bank details via text message
- Request personal information through unsecured links
- Pressure you to act immediately
What to Do If Targeted
If you receive a suspicious message:
- Do not click any links
- Forward the text to 7726 (the UK's scam reporting service)
- Report it to Action Fraud
- Delete the message immediately
The DWP has confirmed these messages are fraudulent and is working with telecom providers to block the scam texts. Energy support payments are automatically issued to eligible households and never require application via text message.
