The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is cautioning motorists about the risks of online safety after receiving reports of nearly 20,000 drivers falling victim to fraud in 2024.
The government agency warns that scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to deceive individuals into sharing their sensitive personal information, which can lead to financial and identity theft.
In a message posted on Twitter, the DVLA urged drivers to use the official GOV.UK website for DVLA services to avoid potential scams and additional costs.
To protect themselves from scams, drivers are advised not to disclose personal or financial information, including banking details. It is crucial not to share driving license details or V5C logbook information online, as scammers can exploit this data for criminal activities.
If drivers receive suspicious emails or texts, they should refrain from responding and avoid sharing personal information like banking details or passwords. Grammatical errors in messages could indicate phishing attempts, particularly if the sender claims to be from the DVLA offering paid services that are typically free on the official website.
To stay safe, it is recommended not to click on unfamiliar links or download attachments from unknown sources. Installing antivirus software can help detect malware and protect against phishing attacks.
If any fraudulent online activity is suspected, the DVLA encourages individuals to report it promptly.