Police warning over vehicle tax refund fraudsters in Sussex

One such unsuccessful attempt was made in Sussex late last month and 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.

The resident had a text message which claimed he was owed a DVLA vehicle tax refund. The bogus link site was tax-disc.gov.uk.dvla.mal.pw, which takes you to an equally bogus UK Gov looking site. 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.

A Sussex Police spokesperson said, “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.

“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.”

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/