DVLA issues scam warning over 'sneaky' messages from thieves

Drivers have been warned of scammers impersonating the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in order to steal personal details.

In a tweet on Friday, the DVLA cautioned how fraudsters may 'sneakily steal' your personal details. The agency alerted motorists about potential scams and how to report them.

Phishing scams bait victims into sharing valuable information like personal and financial details. The ploys can come in the form of misleading texts, emails, calls and websites.

The DVLA tweeted: "Use GOV.UK for DVLA services or scammers may sneakily steal your personal details to commit fraud. Find out how these #scams work and how to avoid or report them: https://gov.uk/report-suspicious-emails-websites-phishing"

The agency further advised: "Do not give out private information (such as bank details or passwords), reply to text messages, download attachments or click on any links in emails if you’re not sure they're genuine."

The DVLA urged people to make sure they're dealing with official government websites, emails and phone numbers.

"Some websites, emails or phone numbers look like they're part of an official government service when they’re not, or claim to help more than they actually do," writes the organisation.

"Some make you pay for things that would be free or cheaper if you use the official government service. Search on GOV.UK to find official government services and phone numbers, for example if you want to apply to the DVLA for a driving licence."

Scammers can trick drivers into handing over valuable information through misleading texts and emails (Getty Images)

Drivers are encouraged to report questionable messages. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) will investigate suspicious emails forwarded to report@phishing.gov.uk.

Texts can be reported to your mobile phone provider if forwarded to 7726. The Advertising Standards Authority deals with misleading adverts on search engines, websites or on social media.

People in Scotland who have lost money because of an online scam or fraud can report the crime to Police Scotland.

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