Winter Fuel payments scam

Scam Alert - Winter Fuel Payment 2025-2026 text messages - 22 May 2025

We are warning residents to be alert for text messages claiming to be from DWP.

One recent example states 'You have not submitted an application for your 2025-2026 winter fuel payment'.

The message then claims that 'to ensure you receive allowance on time' you must complete an application via a link in the message within a short time window, usually around 24 hours from when the message is received.

These messages are not genuine and anyone following the link will be taken to a fake version of the official government website which will look to gather personal and financial information.

Issued by Norfolk County Council

Official government information; Winter Fuel Payment: Overview - GOV.UK