DVLA experts say that the new email was not theirs and they never ask drivers to update personal or bank details online. The new email tried to trick drives by including the official DVLA logo and a sign off at the bottom of the message with a link to the genuine GOV.UK website.
Replying to the message, the DVLA confirmed the message was not sent from them for several reasons.
The DVLA statement said: “Hi, no that’s not from us. We show as DVLAGOVuk and never ask you to reply or give personal/bank details.
“We don’t attach or embed documents or ask you to log into an account.
“We won’t include links; instead we’ll ask you to visit GOV.uk for further information.”
DVLA services are commonly hit by scammers in a desperate bid to secure information of panicked motorists.
Earlier this year the DVLA revealed that there had been a 20 percent increase on scams over the last three months of 2019 as more fraudsters tried to take advantage of customers.
The DVLA has previously warned that they never send out emails asking drivers to confirm personal details and motorists should delete these messages straight away.
They warned drivers who are concerned about any calls, texts or emails should report the messages to the police through the Action Fraud service.
These could well be scammers trying to obtain information to commit identity thefts – where fraudsters use your name and information to secure credit cards, loans and sign up for services.
If the service asks you to include vehicle information such as your number plate this could still be the target of fraudulent car cloning activities.
This is when criminals steal the identity of a vehicle and use it to hide the identity of a solemn car of similar appearance.
Criminals then attempt to sell their stolen car using your details or use it to carry out serious crimes that will appear to have come from you.
Action Fraud has previously said: “Taking a couple of minutes to familiarise yourself with a few simple online safety tips can be significant in protecting yourself from becoming a victim of online fraud.
“You should always be cautious when sharing personal information online and avoid being scammed by only using GOV.UK for government services online, such as the DVLA.
“If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, please report it to us.”