DVLA warns drivers over log book mistake that could see your car cloned

DVLA warns drivers over log book mistake that could see your car cloned The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) reminded motorists on its website Drivers have been told to stop and think before doing anything, as a single motoring mistake could land them in hot water. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) reminds motorists that sharing your log book or licence online is not wise. This could not only put you at risk of identity theft, but car cloning too. The GOV.UK website states that while "getting your driving licence is a big milestone, you may be tempted to share your new shiny licence or V5C (log book) on social media. However, both documents contain key identifying details that scammers can use to steal your identity or even clone your vehicle. "And before you know it, you could be receiving parking, congestion or speeding fines that you were not responsible for." Every registered vehicle holder should have a vehicle log book. According to RAC, the V5C logbook is an official document from the DVLA that proves a vehicle is registered. It includes key details about the vehicle, such as its make, model, registration number, VIN, engine size, fuel type, and colour, as well as the registered keeper’s name and address and previous owners. If you’re buying a used car, check that the seller’s address matches where the car is being sold from and ask if it doesn’t. You need the V5C when selling, scrapping, or updating details about the vehicle with the DVLA. It stresses: "With fraudsters increasingly using more sophisticated ways to trick their victims, it has never been more important for motorists to be vigilant and aware of how to recognise fraudulent emails, texts, websites and calls." In addition to not sharing certain photos online, it urges people to only use GOV.UK. This is the only official place to access DVLA services. Other websites may charge extra or be scams, so always use GOV.UK, where services are often cheaper or free. You should also beware of emails and texts asking you to confirm personal details. The motoring experts explain: "Fraudsters will often send emails or text messages to unsuspecting victims asking them to confirm personal details, such as bank or payment information. "They may even send messages that claim you are entitled to a hefty vehicle tax refund. DVLA will never ask you for your bank account details or ask you to confirm payment details." It confirms it will only ask you to confirm your personal details by email or text if you have a live enquiry with them. It added: "Vehicle tax refunds are issued automatically – never via an email with a link! If you receive one of these emails or texts, do not click on any links. Instead, report it to the National Cyber Security Centre and delete it immediately." How can I report online scams? If you come across any of these scams or any other suspicious activity, you can play your part in helping the DVLA combat fraud by: - reporting phishing emails to the National Cyber Security Centre - reporting online scams to Report Fraud - reporting misleading adverts to search engines [Image text:] Driver Agency r&Vehicle