The government has issued a warning to recipients to be vigilant against scams, advising them to forward suspicious messages to 7726 and delete them, while emphasizing that winter fuel payments are automatically deposited into bank accounts, with eligible pensioners receiving a letter in October or November detailing their payment.

To combat these scams, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is ramping up its awareness campaign in partnership with Action Fraud and charities, aiming to protect vulnerable pensioners.

Additional support options for pensioners include pension credit, which provides about £4,300 annually, and attendance allowance for those with care needs, helping to alleviate financial pressures.

Officials and charities advise reporting any suspicious activity to HMRC or GOV.UK, and suggest calling helplines like Independent Age for further assistance.

Experts warn that scammers tend to target older people, especially those on low incomes, exploiting their increased reliance on financial support during the colder months.