Benefits Fraud Text Scam UK: Spot a Fake DWP Text
DWP can send genuine reminder texts, but a text asking you to reply with bank details or enter them through an unexpected link should be treated as suspicious.
What a fake benefits text looks like
A scam text may claim that a benefit has been paused, that a claim needs reviewing, or that a payment must be applied for. It may create a short deadline and link to a page that asks for identity, login or bank details. This is different from a benefits-advance scam, covered separately at Universal Credit Scams UK: Spot a Fake DWP Message.
DWP does send some genuine texts
Do not use an absolute rule that DWP never texts. For example, DWP's Fraud and Error Prevention Service says it sends informational reminders about returning forms or reporting a change. Those published messages display “Jobcentre Plus” or “Jobcentre +” and do not ask the recipient to reply by text. Sender names can be spoofed, so the displayed name is not proof of authenticity.
During a genuine claim-review phone call, DWP may ask security questions and may ask for the name of your bank. Its published guidance says the reviewer will not ask for the bank account number or sort code.
Winter Fuel Payment wording needs care
Government warned in 2025 that texts inviting people to apply for Winter Fuel Payment were scams and that the vast majority of payments were automatic. Current GOV.UK guidance is more precise: most, not all, eligible people receive it automatically. Some people need to claim. For winter 2026 to 2027, GOV.UK says claims open on 21 September 2026.
The safe advice is therefore: never apply through a text link. Check whether a claim is needed by going directly to the current Winter Fuel Payment page on GOV.UK.
Warning signs
- A link asks for bank details, a password or other sensitive information.
- The message asks you to reply with personal or financial information.
- It threatens an immediate stop to payments unless you act through the message.
- The web address is not the official service you expected.
Check the message safely
Do not use the link or phone number in the text. Sign in to the relevant benefit account directly, or use contact details on an award letter or the benefit's page on GOV.UK. If a claim review is mentioned, use the official benefit contact to ask whether one is in progress.
If details were shared
Contact the bank immediately if bank or card details were disclosed or money was sent. Change any password entered on the fake page, including on other accounts where it was reused. If enough identity information was exposed to create a continuing risk, consider checking credit files and whether Cifas Protective Registration is appropriate.
Reporting in the UK
Forward the text free to 7726. Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. If money was lost or an account was compromised, report the crime to Report Fraud at reportfraud.police.uk or 0300 123 2040 in England, Wales or Northern Ireland; in Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101.
Frequently asked questions
Does DWP ever send genuine texts?
Yes. Some services send reminders, so the mere existence of a DWP-branded text is not enough to decide. Verify it independently and never send bank details by reply.
Is every Winter Fuel Payment automatic?
No. GOV.UK says most eligible people are paid automatically, but some need to claim. Use GOV.UK directly, never a text link.