Residents are being warned of online scammers preying on people who need winter fuel payments.

Dorset Police say the scammers promote the fake 'Winter Fuel Payments' on social media, claiming people of certain ages can receive £500 or £575. These payments do not exist.

If you are eligible for the legitimate UK government's winter fuel payments, you would have received a letter in October or will get one in November stating your payment amount.

Be cautious of any ads or posts on Facebook, Instagram, or other platforms offering 'winter fuel payments'. These are scams are designed to steal your personal and financial information.

To spot these scams:

  • The Winter Fuel Payment is administered by the UK government, not private companies
  • Legitimate payments come via letter, not unsolicited online offers
  • The amounts being advertised (£500, £575) do not match actual payment amounts If you have any concerns, contact the UK government's Winter Fuel Payment Centre. Do not provide any information or make payments in response to suspicious online ads.

If you have been a victim of fraud contact Action Fraud and call your bank fraud department on 159.