UK drivers are being warned about a scam that aims to steal their personal information through fake text messages. Consumer champion Which? has updated its list of scams to be aware of, including one targeting drivers.
Multiple people have reported receiving messages that claim to be a 'Road Safety Notice'. The message tells the recipient that an automated camera has detected a speeding violation "for your vehicle". It then urges people to "log into your account" to respond "promptly".
Copycat website
The word "promptly" is a classic clue as to why this is a scam, as fraudsters often contain a sense of urgency in their messages to make people panic. The text message includes a link that recipients are urged to follow.
However, the link takes you to a copycat government website that will "will steal your personal information as you enter it in", Which? has warned. The consumer group shared the scam warning on September 30, urging UK drivers to be vigilant and cautious when they receive such messages.
How to protect yourself
The National Cyber Security Centre warns that people should never click on a link or enter personal information if they think a text message or email could be a scam. It points out that most phone providers are part of a scheme that allows customers to report suspicious text messages for free by forwarding them to 7726.
It urges Brits to consider the language used in text messages claiming to be from authority figures, such as the government, banks or doctors. "Criminals often pretend to be important people or organisations to trick you into doing what they want," it warns.
Signs of a scam
Additionally, people should notice that messages that contain a sense of urgency, if the messages trigger emotions such as panic or fear, if messages are offering something that is scarcely available (such as concert tickets or a cure for a medical condition), or if they are using current events (such as the end/beginning of the tax year) to take advantage.
If you have any doubts about a message you have received, you should contact the organisation, such as your bank or HMRC, to verify it.
