Warning after Sussex man targeted by DVLA vehicle tax refund scam

Police are warning residents not to be taken in by cold callers or text messages suggesting they are due a DVLA vehicle tax refund.

One such unsuccessful attempt was made in Worthing, West Sussex, late last month, a spokesperson said.

Police are aware that there have been some similar reports elsewhere in the county recently – although there are no reports of the attempts being successful.

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The Worthing resident had a text message which claimed he was owed a DVLA vehicle tax refund, according to the spokesperson.

“The bogus link site was tax-disc.gov.uk.dvla.mal.pw, which takes you to an equally bogus UK Gov looking site,” the spokesperson said.

“This site asks for your bank details so they can refund your money direct in to that bank account.”

The man is very capable and astute but even he only just managed to stop himself pressing send with all his bank details, the spokesperson said.

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“This is a recent variation on a well-established type of fraud across the country in which the criminals phone or text using a variety of ruses to try to make you supply bank details or withdraw cash,” the spokesperson said.

“Genuine organisations, including the DVLA, will never approach you in this way.

“Never give personal information to unexpected callers.

“If you receive such a text, do not respond and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report-a-fraud-including-online-crime-questions

“But if you or someone you know has received such a text, and are at all vulnerable, please report it to us on 101.”

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Further advice on responding to fraud attempts of this type see out website at - https://sussex.police.uk/advice/protect-yourself-and-others/fraud/telephone-fraud/

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