Scam Alert – Drivers warned of fraudulent DVLA messages
Scam DVLA messages
The consumer watchdog Which? has warned drivers should be extra vigilant in detecting a new scam that poses as the DVLA to request personal details.
The scam involves a fraudulent text message which falsely tells motorists their vehicle tax has expired. It also claims the DVLA has been trying to contact them. In a common trick used by fraudsters, the message includes a hyperlink containing ‘gov.uk’ which prompts people to click on it to take action. Unfortunately many people mistakenly believe the message is real when they see this.
The scam message reads: “DVLA Final Notice: We have been trying to contact you.Your vehicle tax has expired. Renew your service online via: gov.uk-taxinfo.org or register SORN.”
Which? has issued an urgent ‘Scam Alert’ in an effort to deter recipients from acting on its demand for immediate action.
The DVLA confirmed the message is a scam and encouraged people to report any suspicious messages. It has acknowledged it is a common target for scams which include emails as well as text messages. Another common recent example is a scam message suggesting you a due a vehicle tax refund. It includes an amount that you are supposedly owed and then a link to the fake refund.
It is important to remember that the real DVLA never sends texts or emails which ask you to confirm personal information or payment details via a link. If you do receive such a message, do not click on any links and delete the message immediately.
What to do if you have clicked on scam links
If you have clicked on a link mistakenly then do not input any personal or card details. However if you have entered payment details; contact your bank immediately and explain to them what has happened.
You should also report any suspicious online activity, or dodgy looking messages, to the Police via Action Fraud. You can do this by using their online reporting tool or by calling Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
Petrol Price Fear
In other motoring news, the competition watchdog has raised fears that the £6.8bn takeover of Asda could lead to higher petrol prices in some parts of the country.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has been reviewing the deal and still has the power to block it. The CMA said it was concerned that the deal would weaken competition in relation to the supply of road fuel in 36 areas of the UK. Motorists could in turn face the prospect of higher prices.
The CMA’s objective is to protect consumers by making sure there continues to be strong competition between petrol stations, leading them to lower prices at the pump.
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DVLA Scam
