[PeteC]

As the Warm Home Discount scheme prepares to reopen in September, fraudsters are ramping up their efforts to exploit unsuspecting households. Each year, thousands of people receive legitimate support through this government-backed initiative—but unfortunately, it also becomes a prime target for scammers. Examples like the text message shown below are cases where scammers are trying to access customer's information.

Scammers often send text messages that appear to be from trusted sources like energy suppliers or government departments. These messages may:

• Claim you need to “reapply” or “confirm your eligibility”
• Ask you to click a link to “secure your discount”
• Request personal or financial information

These messages can look very convincing, using official logos and urgent language to pressure you into acting quickly.

What to Watch Out For

• Unfamiliar links: Never click on links in unsolicited texts.
• Requests for personal details: Legitimate organisations will not ask for your bank details or passwords via text.
• Spelling and grammar mistakes: These are often signs of a scam.
• Urgency or threats: Scammers try to panic you into acting without thinking.

How to Stay Safe

• Wait for official communication: The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or your energy supplier will contact you through secure channels.
• Check with your supplier: If you're unsure, contact your energy provider directly using a verified phone number or website.
• Report suspicious messages: Forward scam texts to 7726 (a free service that helps your mobile provider investigate).

You do not need to apply for the Warm Home Discount if you qualify automatically In England or Wales. Customers in Scotland will be notified in the coming months on how to confirm their eligibility for this years Warm Home Discount process.


If you're eligible and live in England or Wales, you’ll receive a letter from the DWP between October and December. You can find out more information by visiting Warm Home Discount Scheme: Overview - GOV.UK