The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has sent out a fresh warning to millions of vehicle owners across the UK. Every “registered keeper” must ensure they have an up-to-date vehicle log book (V5C), which is essential for keeping track of car, van, or other vehicle ownership details.
This document is crucial and must be replaced if it’s lost, stolen, or damaged, and updated promptly with any changes such as a new name or address, changes in vehicle details, or when buying, selling, or transferring a vehicle. On Monday evening, the DVLA took to X, previously Twitter, to caution drivers with a firm “don’t” as it shared some vital advice.
The DVLA posted: “Stay safe online – don’t share photos of your V5C log book on social media or selling sites, as scammers can use them for identity theft.” In addition to this, the agency is urging motorists to be vigilant and “report misleading websites, emails, phone numbers, phone calls or text messages you think may be suspicious.”
For those who encounter potential scams, there is guidance available via a link in the post on how to proceed. Suspicious emails should be forwarded to [email protected], and dubious text messages can be reported by sending them to 7726, reports the Liverpool Echo.
If you suspect you’ve fallen prey to an online scam or fraud, it’s advised to contact Action Fraud either by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting their website. GOV. UK guidance also states: “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. Some make you pay for things that would be free or cheaper if you used 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.”