It’s important to be wary of scams because unfortunately it happens a lot.
Some could happen when you’re in the comfort of your home as fraudsters send fake texts and emails to steal money.
Scams are so popular that there were 3,157 fake texts pretending to be DVLA were reported between December 2020 and May 2021.
Those startling numbers are also a 12% increase from the previous year.
It can be difficult to avoid falling into the trap of a scam but if you know what to look out for it can help things out a lot.
Texts and emails are common ways to trick people nowadays.
(Image: Media Wales)
Common texts are the ones which try to cause panic and prompt you to click a link immediately.
If you get a link with the words “final request” or “action reacquired” it’s likely to be a scam.
These words are often in all capitals and will be accompanied with a link which you shouldn’t click.
It’s worth looking out for messages about an outstanding vehicle tax refund which come with a link as they’re likely to be fake.
When it’s not through text, scammers will try catch you out through emails too.
Failed payments is one way they try to catch people out by saying “your latest vehicle tax has failed”.
It could say the DVLA will automatically bill you if you don’t pay within five days and threatens a fine if it’s not done on time.
Worried what happens if click on a scam link?
(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
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If you accidentally click on the link make sure you don’t put any details about yourself, just close the page.
But if you’ve put your card details, make sure you contact your bank straight away.
Alternatively, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or you can use the website.
