The Department for Communities has issued an urgent warning amid a benefit scam that is circulating in Northern Ireland.
The text, which claims to be from the DWP, claims to be in relation to a "heat subsidy application" and includes a link. Issuing a statement in response to the scam, the Department for Communities has urged members of the public to be vigilant, and report any suspicious texts or emails.
The scam message states: "Winter is coming to an end. Heat subsidy application route closed. Please submit your application by 12 March 2025 to ensure you are eligible for up to £300!
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"Late applications will not be processed. So please complete your application as soon as possible!"
In a statement, a spokesperson for the DfC said: "The Department for Communities, Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or the UK Government will never ask for your bank details or payment by text, email or via links to a click within a text or email. If you have had a message like this, it may be a scam.
"You should report any suspicious emails or text messages asking for your bank details to Action Fraud. Contact http://actionfraud.police.uk.
"You can also forward a scam text to your mobile network provider on 7726 for free. You can also inform your local Jobs & Benefits office or benefit branch if you spot a scam or have concerns about a message you received."
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