Thousands of motorists are being targeted by five major motoring scams, including con DVLA messages and incorrect parking QR codes. Incorrect Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) stickers, fake used car adverts and random texts demanding money are also impacting road users.
The warning from motoring experts at LeaseLoco came after scam reports to the DVLA rose to almost 20,000 last year. Analysis shows that younger drivers aged 25-34 are the most common victims of scams such as second-hand fraud. However, older motorists are also being targeted, particularly with fake parking stickers.
John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco said: “Unfortunately driving-related scams are really common and they work well for fraudsters because they can create a sense of urgency.
“A lot of these scams will urge you to quickly pay a fee to avoid facing bigger fines. When we see something like this we often rush to get the payment done rather than stopping and checking the legitimacy of the message or letter.”
Firstly, LeaseLoco stressed that fake QR codes are being placed on parking meters across major UK cities.
An almost identical sticker is placed over the real QR code with many motorists unaware they are submitting details to fraudsters instead of paying.
Next, they warned that fake DVLA text messages continue to do the rounds with texts demanding action for failed car tax payments still common.
LeaseLoco said that scammers have been known to send fake parking charge notices to houses in the post and even posting fake adverts on Facebook Marketplace advertising cars that don’t exist.
Finally, they warned road users may be on the receiving end of messages claiming they owe money for crossing a toll or congestion zone.
These emails are usually followed by a ‘pay now’ link demanding payment, which could scare motorists into action before checking whether they are linked to an official GOV.UK site.
John added: “The good news is there are ways to spot these scams which can prevent you from losing any money.
“For example, if you’ve been contacted via text message to pay a fine, be conscious of who it is from. Organisations like the DVLA will never ask for money or personal information on a text message.
“By taking a moment to verify the legitimacy of these alerts you could save yourself from losing out on potentially thousands of pounds.”
Full list of DVLA scams
- QR codes on parking machines
- Fake DVLA messages
- Fake Penalty Charge Notice fines
- False used car sales
- Toll or congestion charge messages