Weekly Fraud update from West Mercia Police - Economic Crime Unit - 11/11/2025

WINTER FUEL ALLOWANCE PAYMENT SCAMS

Once again, the criminals have seized upon an opportunity to scam unsuspecting pensioners with texts and emails suggesting they are eligible for a Winter Fuel Allowance Payments.

They may tell you that you have to apply, or they may request your bank details or other personal information in order to receive your payment

If you are actually eligible, then you will have received a genuine letter from DWP in October, and you do not have to do anything else as the payment will be processed automatically in the coming weeks.

The things to look out for in these adverts are:

And, as always, check the account details behind the advert and never click on any links provided or pass over personal details which they may ask for.

Fake emails can be reported to report@phishing.gov.uk and fake text messages can be reported free of charge to 7726 on your mobile phone.

FAKE CHARITY APPEALS

Following the disastrous devastation of Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean and the Typhoons in The Philippines, beware of fraudsters setting up scam appeals by emails, websites, and social media.

The best advice is not to respond to unsolicited appeals online or via social media, but if you decide to donate then go directly to a reputable Charity Website to make your donation.

Please feel free to share these messages with any vulnerable friends, relatives, or neighbours.

If you have been a victim of fraud

Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk

Scam Text messages can be forwarded to 7726 to help phone providers take prompt action and block numbers that generate spam on their networks.

You can also report fraudulent mobile calls by texting 7726 with the word “Call” followed by the fraudster’s phone number.

Scam calls received on WhatsApp can be blocked by opening the chat with the suspect phone number and tap on “Block”.

Forward Fake Emails received to report@phishing.gov.uk

If you think your bank account or personal banking details have been used fraudulently, then use the short phone number - 159 - to contact the Fraud Prevention Department of most major UK banks.