The PSNI has warned the public not to fall for scam text messages asking people to pay vehicle parking fines.
Texts are circulating claiming to be from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), stating that recipient is required to pay a fine, and that if it is not paid, they could face prosecution.
The DVSA has stressed it does not deal with parking fines, and has urged those who receive the texts to report them to police.
PSNI Superintendent Joanne Gibson said the texts are a method for scammers to access victims’ personal details including name, address and banking information.
“This can then be used to commit a more sophisticated scam where the losses can be substantial,” she said.
“Our advice is never click on any links in any message if you’re not sure it’s genuine. You could well find yourself being scammed and swindled by criminals.
“If you have clicked on a link and provided your personal or financial details you should be cautious as you may be targeted for further scams. However, you can take action to protect yourself by reporting to your bank or building society that your account details may have been compromised. Check your bank account for suspicious transactions and regularly check your credit file.”
Police have warned people not to disclose any details to people they do not know, and not to feel rushed or pressured by timelines, highlighting that genuine businesses will give people time to consider their options.
Superintendent Gibson added: “You can check the person or organisation you’re dealing with is on the Financial Service Register by going to https://register.fca.org.uk/Report - If you have lost money or been targeted in a scam, report it to police on online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or call 101, report it to your bank immediately, online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.”
