DVLA issues ‘protect yourself’ message to all drivers
Drivers are asked to be careful when receiving text messages and emails. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has shared a warning on social media to help drivers protect their personal information.
The DVLA revealed in a post on X that criminals were sending fake messages to drivers. The post said: “Scammers are targeting drivers with fake texts and emails pretending to be DVLA.” Fortunately, the message also emphasized steps to take to “protect yourself.” The advice said drivers should always use Gov.uk and should not share personal information.
The DVLA continued: “Think before you click.” The post also linked to the DVLA’s Gov.uk webpage, which contains top tips for avoiding scams.
according to website: “GOV.UK is the only place you can access official information about the DVLA and its services. Using any other website may mean you will be charged more for services that are cheaper or completely free on GOV.UK. Other websites may even be fraudulent, so our advice is to always use GOV.UK when dealing with DVLA.”
The webpage discusses the risks associated with scam emails and texts. The DVLA guidance explains: “Scammers will often email or text unsuspecting victims, asking them to confirm personal details such as banking or payment details. They may even send messages claiming that you are entitled to a hefty vehicle tax refund.”
“The DVLA will never ask you to confirm your bank account details or payment details. We will only ask you to confirm your personal information via email or message if you have a live inquiry with us.
“And vehicle tax refunds are issued automatically – never via an email with a link! If you receive one of these emails or messages, do not click on any links. Report it to the authorities instead. National Cyber Security Center and delete immediately.”
Drivers are being warned not to share their driver’s license or vehicle details online as they could put themselves at risk if criminals steal it. The DVLA said both your license and V5C (logbook) contain important details that could be used to steal your identity or clone your vehicle.
The DVLA said these details should not be shared online. According to reports, drivers could be issued with parking, congestion or speeding tickets if scammers find them on social media. Mirror.
Motorists should also watch out for fake websites impersonating the DVLA. Often these websites charge extra for free or lower cost services on Gov.uk.
DVLA warns people of phishing emails National Cyber Security Centerto online scams Report Scam and placing misleading advertisements on search engines. Reporting suspicious activity can help prevent fraud.
