Beware — DVLA Scam Emails
The DVLA is increasingly being used by scammers trying to get you to divulge your personal or financial details. Online scams and phishing attacks by email are designed to get you to part with your hard-earned cash. Here we offer some tips on how not to become a victim.
What are Phishing Scams?
Phishing is an attempt by cyber criminals to get you to give them sensitive information, such as your bank details and where you live. The more information the crooks can get, the easier it is to steal your identity and your money. Emails usually offer something free or claim that you owe money.
A phishing email sent to you, appearing to come from a trusted source, will contain a link that you are encouraged to click on. The link takes you to a fake website on which you are asked to fill in a form with your name, address, and bank or credit card details, including the three-digit security code.
How to Spot a DVLA Phishing Attack
DVLA is frequently used as a cover for phishing attacks. If you own a car, you might expect to receive communication from them and be inclined to react to the instructions in the email, especially if you are threatened with a hefty fine.
The first thing to know is that the DVLA never sends emails or texts asking for confirmation of your personal details or for payment to be made via a link. If you receive an email or text seemingly from the DVLA, do not click on any links. Check the email address it’s been sent from, which will clearly be unrelated to the DVLA. An official email will end with gov.uk.
If you receive a suspicious email or text, forward the details to [email protected] which alerts the National Cyber Security Centre. Every report is investigated and, where possible, the scammers are shut down.
DVLA Phishing Scams
An DVLA phishing email might have subject lines such as, “Your latest vehicle tax failed”, or “Your vehicle tax is not up to date” or “Reminder: Vehicle Tax DD Payment Schedule”. The body of the email will vary, but all will say that you must pay your vehicle tax and you could be fined up to £1,000 if you don’t pay within the specified time.
It will tell you to click on a link to process the payment. If you provide the information, the scammers will go on a spending spree with your credit card. If you have clicked the link and entered bank or credit card details, contact your bank or card provider immediately. Also, report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk, or call 0300 123 2020.
The Official DVLA Website
On the official DVLA website, you can get the all the accurate information about driving licences, road tax, log books, and more. When you buy a private number plate, you can also find on the website the forms you need to complete to transfer the personalised registration to your car, or from one vehicle to another.
