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DWP Warns of Fake Energy Support Scheme Texts Targeting Benefits Claimants

Recipients should forward any text claiming new energy grants to 60599 for free verification since the scheme ended in April 2024.

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Overview

  • Fraudsters have sent texts falsely claiming to be DWP notices offering £200–£300 under a made-up Energy Support Scheme.
  • Anyone who receives a suspicious message can forward it to 60599 to check its legitimacy via GOV.UK guidance.
  • The National Cyber Security Centre recommends forwarding scam texts to 7726 so providers can investigate and block malicious senders.
  • There is no actual application for energy grants; genuine payments such as the Warm Home Discount and Winter Fuel Payment are paid automatically to eligible recipients.
  • Research shows 6.6 million UK adults lost money to online scams in 2024, with average losses around £1,730, highlighting the need for vigilance.