The new payment system is prompting an increase in tax-related scams directed at older people.
Rhian Bowen-Davies, the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, said: “Whenever high-profile changes to tax or financial arrangements are made, like those we’re seeing with the new Winter Fuel Payment system, we often see massive spikes in fraud and scams, which are often targeted at older people who are often seen as ‘easy targets’ by criminals.
“Common scams included being contacted by text or email, either with a warning that money is owed or the promise of a rebate, advising individuals to click a link to resolve the matter, which often involves sharing personal or financial information.”
She stressed the importance of verifying any suspicious messages.
Ms Bowen-Davies said: “If someone receives something that seems genuine, but are not sure, then they should find a publicly available phone number or email address and contact the organisation in question to double-check.
“Similarly, if you receive something you think is a scam, please report it.
“You can forward suspected scam texts to 7726 (which spells out SPAM), or forward suspected scam emails to report@phishing.gov.uk so they can be investigated.”
The commissioner’s office advises against sharing personal or financial details with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
She said: “It’s crucial that older people are vigilant and do not share personal details if they are contacted unexpectedly about this or a similar matter.”
