Fraud alert

Published: 31 July 2025

Kent Police is warning residents of Kent to be on high alert for a fraudulent text message claiming to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) regarding the Winter Heating Allowance for 2025–2026.

What to watch out for:

The scam text message may say: “Winter Heating Subsidy Reminder: You are eligible to apply. Please update your information via the link.”

It may include a fake deadline (example: “apply by 31st July 2025”) to create urgency.

The link provided often mimics a government website but is not genuine (example: gov.winterpaymentdu.top).

Victims are asked to enter personal or financial details, which are then used for fraud.

Remember:

The genuine Winter Fuel Payment is automatically issued to eligible individuals. No application is required in most cases.

The DWP will never ask you to apply via unofficial links or third-party websites.

Always check information directly at: www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment

If you receive a suspicious text message:

Do NOT click any links or respond to suspicious text messages

Report it by forwarding the text message to 7726

Report scams to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk.

Stay safe!