Wokingham borough council is urging residents to be aware of scam.
It said it is aware of a winter fuel payment and energy allowance messages which pretend to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
The National Anti-Fraud Network (NAFA) has shared an example of the messages in circulation, some of which appear to be sent to multiple recipients from +63 908 306 9627 and +44 744 709 4289.
A spokesperson said: “Scammers change their numbers frequently so it could come from any number.
“In some cases, scammers can even trick (or “spoof”) your phone into showing what looks like an official number.”
The DWP has issued a firm warning that they never send text messages or emails requesting bank details for winter fuel payments.
If you receive a scam message, you should:
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Ignore and delete any texts asking you to apply for the winter fuel payment
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Warn older family members or neighbours who may be more at risk
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Report scam messages by forwarding them to Ofcom at 7726 (a free reporting service)
If you’ve fallen victim, contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via their website,
