State pensioners have been urged to stay alert as scammers attempt to trick people with fake text messages offering Winter Fuel Payments. The texts claim to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or HMRC and urge recipients to apply for a payment by clicking a link, but the messages are fake.

Cyber security experts say the scam is likely to return in the colder months after similar messages were first spotted circulating in August, targeting older and more vulnerable people. Juliet Moran, a tech expert at TelephoneSystems.Cloud, said: "This horrible scam that we saw earlier in the year could be doing the rounds again soon as we approach the colder months.

"Unfortunately, when it comes to scams, the elderly are often the ideal target as they're a vulnerable group in society, and this scam is no different."

Victims are told to follow a link and apply for their Winter Fuel Payment but are then asked to hand over personal details and bank information.

Ms Moran added: "Those who are eligible for Winter Fuel Payments will receive it automatically and there is no need to apply.

"It's important to spread the word about horrible scams like this which can cause people to lose thousands.

"If you have elderly family members or neighbours, please make them aware that this message could be circulating again later this year and advise them to avoid responding."

Scammers often use urgent or threatening language such as "act now or miss out on your Winter Fuel Payment" to create panic and get a quick response. But the Government has confirmed it does not demand instant action via text.

Other red flags include spelling mistakes, suspicious links, and any requests for personal or financial information.

Experts say if a message claims to be from HMRC or the DWP and asks for sensitive data, it should be ignored and reported immediately.

The Department for Work and Pensions does not send Winter Fuel Payment texts or emails asking people to apply.

Ms Moran said: "The message we saw earlier in the year invites recipients to click on a link to apply for their Winter Fuel Payment where they're then asked to hand over personal information."

She added: "Be suspicious of messages from unfamiliar numbers, and always check official advice on the GOV.UK website before responding to anything."

Anyone who receives a suspicious message is urged to report it to the National Cyber Security Centre or forward texts to 7726, a free scam-reporting service run by mobile providers. For more information and help, visit gov.uk.