The Ministry of Energy in Ontario warns residents of a circulating scam in which some people receive text messages offering them a one-time government payment.

In the texts, the recipient is informed that they are eligible for a one-time payment from the Ontario government to cover "high heating costs" in the province. The text also encourages recipients to respond to receive their payments.

Palmer Lockridge, spokesperson for the Ministry of Energy, confirmed to CTV News Toronto on Saturday that these texts are "not authentic," adding: "The Ministry of Energy, the Ontario Energy Board, and electricity utilities do not contact by phone, email, or text messages to promote energy-saving programs or to offer an in-home inspection."

While these texts are indeed fraudulent, Lockridge pointed out that the government does offer energy bill relief in the form of the Ontario Electricity Support Program, which provides credits of up to $75 per month.

He also said: "Customers who are behind on their electricity or natural gas bills and are facing service disconnection may also qualify for emergency financial assistance up to $1200 through the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program."

For more information about energy sector scams, the ministry recommends visiting www.oeb.ca/scams.