Motorists have been urged to exercise caution when receiving text messages and emails. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) shared a social media warning to help drivers safeguard their personal details.
In a post on X, the DVLA revealed that criminals are sending fraudulent messages to motorists. The post said: “Scammers are targeting drivers with fake texts and emails pretending to be DVLA.” Fortunately, the message also highlighted steps to take to “protect yourself.” The advice said drivers should always use Gov.uk, and they should not share personal information.
The DVLA continued: “Think before you click.” The post also linked to a Gov.uk webpage with the DVLA’s top tips for avoiding scams.
According to the website: “The only place to access official information on DVLA and its services is GOV.UK. Using any other website could mean you’ll be charged more for services that are either cheaper or completely free on GOV.UK. Other websites may even be fraudulent, so our advice is to always use GOV.UK when transacting with DVLA.”
The webpage discusses the risks associated with scam emails and texts. DVLA guidance explains: “Fraudsters will often send emails or text messages to unsuspecting victims asking them to confirm personal details, such as bank or payment information. They may even send messages that claim you are entitled to a hefty vehicle tax refund.
“DVLA will never ask you for your bank account details or ask you to confirm payment details. We will only ask you to confirm your personal details by email or text if you have a live enquiry with us.
“And vehicle tax refunds are issued automatically – never via an email with a link! If you receive one of these emails or texts, do not click on any links. Instead, report it to the National Cyber Security Centre and delete it immediately.”
Drivers are warned not to share their driving licence or vehicle information online, as it could put them at risk if criminals steal it. The DVLA said both your licence and your V5C (log book) contain key details that can be used to steal your identity or clone your vehicle.
The DVLA said these details shouldn’t be shared online. If scammers find them on social media, drivers could receive parking, congestion, or speeding fines they didn’t incur, reports the Mirror.
Drivers should also watch out for fake websites that impersonate the DVLA. Often, these websites charge extra for services that are free or lower cost on Gov.uk.
The DVLA urged people to report phishing emails to the National Cyber Security Centre, online scams to Report Fraud and misleading adverts to search engines. Reporting suspicious activity can help to prevent fraud.
