Pensioners in West Midlands put on alert by police over cruel winter heating scams

As the temperature starts to plunge scammers have been sending phone texts and placing adverts on social media sites suggesting that pensioners are  eligible for a Winter Fuel Allowance Payments.

They have even been offering sums of money in excess of the normal allowance, which was withdrawn by the Government for many pensioners.

Michael Barbour, of West Mercia Police's Economic Crime Unit, said: “Once again, the criminals have seized upon an opportunity to scam unsuspecting pensioners with texts suggesting they are eligible for a Winter Fuel Allowance Payments, and even offering sums in excess of the normal allowance, which was withdrawn by the Government for many pensioners.

“There are also reports of further adverts appearing on Facebook and Instagram which may also have used authentic looking Government Department logos and headers.

“Basically, these scams are promoting a Winter Fuel Payment or a Heating Subsidy which of course do not exist.”

Those who are eligible will have received a genuine letter from DWP in October.

Things to look out for in these adverts are:

•    Poor spelling and grammar

•    Low quality images

•    Too good to be true offers

Police advice includes taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information, asking if it could be fake and it is OK to reject, refuse or ignore any requests.

People should contact their bank immediately if they think they have fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud

Frauds should be reported to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk

Scam Text messages can be forwarded to 7726 to help phone providers take early action and block numbers that generate spam on their networks. You can also report Scam mobile calls by texting 7726 with the word “Call” followed by the scam caller’s phone number.

Forward Fake Emails received to report@phishing.gov.uk

If you think your bank account or personal banking details have been used fraudulently, then use the short phone number - 159 - to contact the Fraud Prevention Department of most major UK banks.