Warning issued after reports after scammers target residents with fake DVLA email

Residents across Wrexham are being be aware of a scam DVLA email currently being circulated.

Wrexham Trading Standards have issued the warning after reports of residents receiving official-looking emails, claiming to be from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

The emails claim that “some irregularities” have been found, and ask people to follow a link to update their details.

The scammers say: “You are required to update your profile to its latest form to avoid termination of your motoring licence. You must use your valid and official information to complete this form. Using any nicknames or short-addresses can lead to rejection of this update.”

You are then asked to click a link, which takes you to a form to enter your personal information, and set up or renew your payment information.

Please be aware that this is a scam and do not click on any links within the email.

Cllr Hugh Jones, Lead Member for Communities, Partnerships, Public Protection and Community Safety, said: “Scam emails of this type are reliant on scaremongering people into making poor, rash decisions.

“People need their driving licence for many reasons, such as work commitments, and this email intends to cause panic and lead someone into making a bad decision they will regret.

“Please don’t get caught out, and be extra cautious about giving out any personal information.

“Always take the time you need to identify whether something could be a scam first. If still you’re not sure, get in touch with the brand or company directly.”

The following information has been issued by Wrexham Trading Standards on what to do if you receive a similar email:

STOP – Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.

CHALLENGE – Could it be fake? It’s OK to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

PROTECT – Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud.

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) created the Suspicious Email Reporting Service which makes it easy for people to forward suspicious emails to them.

The NCSC will then analyse the suspect email and any websites it links to.

If you have received an email which you’re not quite sure about, you can forward it to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service by emailing [email protected]

If you think you may have been the victim of fraud or cyber-crime, you should report this to Action Fraud via their website or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Action Fraud is the UK’s National Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting Centre.

Consumer advice can be obtained from the Citizens Advice Consumer Service. They can be contacted on 0808 223 1144 (Welsh) or 0808 223 1133 (English).