Drivers warned of ‘DVLA’ car tax scam
Drivers are being warned about a new ‘DVLA’ text scam that looks to con recipients by telling them they’re eligible for a tax refund.
The scam sees motorists receive a text message from fraudsters posing as the DVLA, declaring a change in legislation.
Recipients are then told to click on a link, which takes them through to a page that asks them to fill in sensitive personal information.
The racket is the latest in a long line of tricks that have seen criminals pretend to be the DVLA in order to target unsuspecting motorists.
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READ MORE: Car tax bands: a simple guide to car tax, mythbusting with the DVLA & New 'pay-as-you-drive' road tax to cover £40 billion tax shortfall considered
The RAC warns that, despite recent changes to car tax causing an element of confusion, it’s important that motorists remain vigilant to cons like this.
Spokesman Pete Williams said: “The cost of motoring is a big concern for motorists, so the offer of an unexpected tax rebate can sound very tempting.
"Always be wary of any request asking for personal information and be alert to any offer that sounds too good to be true.”
Drivers are being urged to ignore the messages and delete them immediately.
IN OTHER NEWS: Average speed cameras ‘better at slowing cars down’ & 2/100 vehicles are untaxed
In response to these scams, the DVLA has clarified its position with regards to contacting motorists.
It said: “We don’t send emails or text messages that ask you to confirm your personal details or payment information, such as for a vehicle tax refund.
“If you get anything like this, don’t open any links and delete the email or text immediately.”
Motorists who have received this text message or any other emails or texts from the DVLA that seem suspicious can report the incidents on the gov.uk website.
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