Somerville urges Scots to ‘remain alert’ against winter heating scammers

Scots are being urged to “remain alert” to scams claiming to be linked to winter heating payments.

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville reminded people that Social Security Scotland – the body responsible for making the payments – will never ask for personal or financial details in a text or email.

She issued the warning ahead of payments being made to help vulnerable Scots heat their homes this winter.

Last year, more than half a million households across the country benefited from payments including the Winter Heating Payment, Child Winter Heating Payment and Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.

These three payments are made automatically to almost everyone who is eligible, meaning most people do not need to apply to receive them.

However, criminals can pretend to be messaging from Social Security Scotland or another government department, with scam messages asking people to update their details and apply for benefits.

Ms Somerville said: “As we approach the winter months, Social Security Scotland will be giving valuable payments to thousands of people automatically to help them stay warm during colder weather.”

But she said: “It is important that people remain alert to scam text messages and e-mails. Social Security Scotland will never ask people for personal or financial details by text or e-mail.

“If anyone is unsure if they are eligible or are worried they will not receive a payment they are eligible for, please get in touch with Social Security Scotland directly.”