Fake websites lead to rise in road tax costs
The Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued warnings over fraudulent websites claiming to assist users in paying road tax.
The issue, according to the DVLA, is not helped by the fact that misleading links can appear genuine or highly ranked on search engines, with some fraudulent websites charging a fee for paper applications, resulting in the users paying fines late, or in some cases, not at all. The Agency said: ”These websites will claim to offer value-added services to ensure your application is correct before you send it to DVLA. However, using this service will mean you can end up paying as much as 3 times the normal price for your driving licence, and all you will receive is a paper application form that has been completed for you.”
MPs have also joined in the debate, asking the DVLA to step up measures to counter road tax fraud. Labour chairwoman Louise Ellman and Shadow transport secretary Mary Creagh were among a group of politicians lobbying for greater information and better re-organisation to prevent further fraudulent activity. Transport for London (TfL) has also contacted the government directly, asking that letters be sent out to motorists who had used misleading websites to pay various taxes, charges and fines.
Watch the video below to find out what you can to do keep yourself safe from misleading websites. Have you had any experience with fraudulent road tax sites?
