In a welcome recent announcement, the UK government made a dramatic shift to their winter fuel payment scheme. The income eligibility threshold will increase to £35,000. This modification will have a substantial impact on all whom qualify for receiving this payment, referred to as the winter heating allowance. Long overdue, this fix will help more people get the support they need when temperatures dip.
While the federal government works to roll out this important change, scammers have already started taking advantage of the confusion. Recently, many people have told us that they’ve been getting text messages claiming to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). These messages mislead recipients into believing that they have not already submitted their applications for the winter fuel payment this year.
Understanding the Scam
Unlike the imperative, fraudulent texts provide a very unambiguous warning to victims. They warn that if you miss your application deadline, you’ll forfeit your opportunity to get a £300 payment. And these messages usually include a link that looks very official, full of “uk” and “gov” in the URL. But as experts point out, many of these newly-texted links direct users to phishing sites meant to steal their personal information.
People who think they’ve gotten one of these messages are strongly urged to report it. You can report fraud directly to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting center. Call them on 0300 123 2040 or head to their website to make your report online.
“We never send text messages or emails requesting your bank details for winter fuel payment purposes.” – Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
Reporting Changes in Circumstances
You are required to notify us immediately if your situation changes. This will ensure you meet the new eligibility threshold for your winter fuel payment. Learn more about this industry-friendly loophole here. Simply go to UK Government, Change of Circumstances for Winter Fuel Payment.
The government is strongly advising that anyone impacted take advantage of this resource to ensure they are still able to receive financial assistance come winter months.
With winter solstice bringing longer nights, leaving people to darkened doorsteps or parking lots, it’s all the more crucial that people stay alert to scams. Their major announcements serve as a timely reminder to keep up-to-date with moves in government that affect access public funds and other forms of financial support.
Implications of the U-turn
The Home Nations’ decisions on the increase in the winter fuel payment threshold will affect a large number of households in all areas of the UK. Clearly, more people can now be eligible for this vital form of assistance. During these times, it might be more important than ever to protect them from misleading, potentially fraudulent, communications.
Residents are better equipped to protect themselves against fraud. Better awareness of these scams and better reporting channels better equip their victims to report when the nature of their circumstances change. The government has been clear on its U-turn and on the dangers of the path ahead. This is a brutally poignant reminder to all of us to remain alert and watchful this season.