DWP issues warning about new bill support scam

North Wales Live

3 days ago

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a warning about a new scam. In an alert shared on X, the DWP's official account urged the public to "beware" of fraudulent schemes, particularly those claiming to be from the department.
Discussing the scam, which seems to target individuals seeking help with their bills, the DWP confirmed that it is indeed a hoax. Genuine support for energy bills can only be accessed through the official GOV.UK website.
The DWP warned on X: "Beware: If you get a text about an 'Energy Support Scheme' it is a scam. Find out how to report and recover from any suspicious texts, phone calls, or emails via Stop! Think Fraud."
Linking to their official Stop! Think Fraud website - all about how to stay safe from scams - the experts note: "Nobody is immune from fraud. The criminals behind it target people online and in their homes, often emotionally manipulating their victims before they steal money or personal data," reports the Mirror.
They continue: "But there is something we can do. By staying vigilant and always taking a moment to stop, think and check whenever we're approached, we can help to protect ourselves and each other from fraud."
How can I identify a scam text message?
The aim of a fraudulent message, sent through SMS, WhatsApp, or other messaging platforms, is usually to deceive you into clicking on a link. This link often directs you to a fake website that's set up to nick your personal details, money, or to plant malware on your device.
Scammers tend to keep their fake texts brief and straightforward, but they employ sly tactics to make them look legitimate. They might even "spoof" the sender's number so it looks like the message has come from a reliable entity, such as your bank, and appears in the same conversation thread.
However, there are a number of signs that the message might be fake, so here's how to spot a suspicious message. The experts urge people to be wary if you see:
an 'irresistible' product offer or prize from a number or company you don't know
an urgent alert about security, for example claiming your bank account details have been compromised
a message about a product or service you haven't purchased or requested
a delivery company demanding you pay a fee before they deliver a parcel
an appeal from a family member asking you to send money
encouragement to click on an unknown link – if you're not sure, visit the organisation's website directly rather than clicking through
a request for you to share personal data
language designed to create a sense of urgency or panic
messages sent outside normal business hours, especially if they're very late at night or very early in the morning
What do I do if I get a scam text?
break the contact – don't reply, click on any links, or make any payments
check if it's genuine: contact the person or company directly, using a phone number you already have and know is correct
forward the message for free to 7726
What to I do if I've replied to the scam text?
The experts stress: "Don't panic! What you do next depends on whether you've replied, clicked a link, sent information or made a payment."
You can look at their advice on what to do if you've been a victim of fraud.