DWP issues Energy Support Scheme scam text alert to everyone who pays bills

The DWP - the Department for Work and Pensions - has warned people to be alert for a scam that could drain their bank account. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, the government department's official account warned to "beware" of scams, specifically claiming to be from the body.

Talking about the fraudulent scheme - suggesting it's aimed at people who need help with bills - the DWP confirmed that it's fake. Genuine help with energy bills can be found through the official GOV.UK website.

The DWP posted 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."

READ MORE: Universal Credit, Pension Credit and Housing Benefit change to make more people eligible

READ MORE: Coldplay kiss cam joke branded 'tone deaf' as Stroke Association issues apology

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.

"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 to spot a fake text message

Talking about scams, the government site sets out how to spot a fake text message.

The purpose of a fraudulent message - whether sent via SMS, WhatsApp, or another messaging platform - is typically to trick you into clicking a link. This link often leads to a bogus website designed to steal your personal information, money, or infect your device with malware.

Fake texts are usually short and simple - but scammers use clever tricks to make them seem convincing. They can even "spoof" the sender's number, making it appear as if the message is coming from a trusted source, like your bank, within 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.