Summary
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is urging motorists to never give away personal details, reminding them of an “automatic” process. In a post on X, the agency said that if you’re not sure whether a message you’ve received from the DVLA is genuine, you can learn how to spot scams with the agency’s official guidance.
Details
Directing people to its guide, it notes that drivers need to be aware of emails and texts asking them to confirm personal details. Not only that, but it warns that you should never click an email link for a vehicle tax refund. It 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.” It adds: “And vehicle tax refunds are issued automatically – never via an email with a link!” If you get one of these emails or texts, don’t click any links. Report it to the National Cyber Security Centre and delete it straight away. You can report it here .
Related stories
In another warning to motorists on its website, the DVLA urges people never to share their driving licence or vehicle details online. It says that passing your test and receiving your licence is a major milestone, which can make it tempting to post a photo of your new card or your V5C log book on social media.
But both documents contain identifying information that criminals can use to steal your identity or even clone your vehicle. That could leave you facing parking, congestion-charge or speeding fines for offences you didn’t commit. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency reminds road users that the only official place to get DVLA information and use its services is GOV.UK.
Other websites may charge you extra for services that are cheaper – or free – on GOV.UK, and some could be scams. Always use GOV.UK for anything to do with the DVLA.
What You Need to Know
Other websites may charge you extra for services that are cheaper – or free – on GOV.UK, and some could be scams. Always use GOV.UK for anything to do with the DVLA.
Report source: Gloucestershire Live
