The tax office has shut down more than 4,600 bogus Winter Fuel Payment-related websites as fraudsters target vulnerable individuals using SMS messages and phishing websites.
The Government announced a change in eligibility criteria for the Winter Fuel Payment last year, meaning only pensioners receiving Pension Credit or another qualifying benefit would receive the £200 cash payment. Previously, everyone over the state pension age received the payment.
But following widespread criticism, ministers changed the rules again in June, meaning the payments to assist with energy bills will be extended to single pensioners earning less than £35,000 or households over the state pension age earning less than a combined £70,000.
Anyone who is eligible for Winter Fuel Payments will receive the payments automatically without having to make a claim. Any recovery of the payment for pensioners whose total income is over £35,000 will be collected via PAYE or self-assessment, dependent on how the individual pays tax on their income.
Kelly Paterson, HMRC’s chief security officer, said: “Don’t be fooled by these attempts by scammers to take your money or access your personal information. Never let yourself be rushed. If someone contacts you saying they’re HMRC, wanting you to urgently transfer money or give personal information, be on your guard. If a phone call, text or email is suspicious or unexpected, don’t give out private information or reply, and don’t download attachments or click on links.
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“I’m urging people to be alert to scams relating to Winter Fuel Payments and to report any suspicious texts, phone calls or emails to HMRC. Taking action now could help HMRC prevent fraud and protect customers who may have received bogus messages.”
If you’re unsure about a text claiming to be from HMRC, forward it to 60599, and send any suspicious emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk.
