Council warning issued after reports of scam DVLA emails targeting residents

A warning has been issued following reports of a scam DVLA email currently in circulation.

The fake email, purporting to be from the DLVA, claims that the recipient’s car is not taxed.

It encourages people to follow a link designed to steal personal information and potentially your money.

The emails look official so if you receive one check with the DVLA to make sure you know the status of your car tax.

Customers are advised the only place to access official information on DVLA and its services is GOV.UK.

The agency never asks for bank details over email and never sends text messages about vehicle tax or similar.

As well as forwarding any suspicious emails and texts, DVLA has 5 top tips for motorists to stay safe online:

• Never share driving licence images and vehicle documents online
• Never share bank details or personal data online
• Avoid websites offering to connect to DVLA’s contact centre
• Only use GOV.UK when looking for DVLA contact details
• Immediately report it to the police through Action Fraud if you think you’ve been the victim of a scam

Roger Mapleson, Trading Standards and Licensing lead, said: “Scam emails of this type are used to scare people into making poor decisions in order to avoid a fine.

“If you receive this or any other email asking you to take action then always check out the facts for yourself and never follow any links.

“Scammers are becoming increasingly aware of how to scam people so it’s important to stay up to date with what’s going on by checking with Action Fraud.

“If you think you may have been the victim of a scam, you should report this to Action Fraud via their website or by calling 0300 123 2040.”