Authorities are issuing an urgent warning about sophisticated driving test scams. Criminals are exploiting long driving test waiting times. They promise to provide licences without any exams. Consequently, they target frustrated learner drivers on social media. These driving test scams are designed to steal money and personal information.
Therefore, one scammer offered a licence for eight hundred and fifty pounds. They claimed to have a team of certified instructors. This team would supposedly process the buyer’s details. They fraudulently promised to submit test results internally. Therefore, the buyer would skip both the theory and practical tests. Another scammer requested five hundred pounds. They bragged about an agent working on the DVLA system.
However, government agencies confirm these are all fraudulent offers. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency strongly denies any staff involvement. A spokesperson labeled these offers as recognized scams. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency also issued a warning. They stated that any promised documents are counterfeit. Possessing a fake licence carries a severe penalty. Individuals could face up to ten years in prison.
Furthermore, these driving test scams are proliferating due to massive delays. Current waiting times average about twenty-two weeks. In London, the wait often extends to twenty-four weeks. Over six hundred and sixty thousand people currently have tests booked. This frustrating backlog creates a perfect environment for fraudsters.
Moreover, recent bank data shows the scam’s growing impact. One major bank reported that victim losses have doubled. The average person loses about two hundred and forty-four pounds. Almost all these fraudulent transactions originate on social media platforms. The scammers typically request payment via bank transfer. They often ask for a screenshot of a provisional licence first.
therefore, social media companies are taking action against these accounts. TikTok banned three accounts following an investigation. Meta also removed two similar Instagram accounts. Both platforms explicitly prohibit content that trades forged documents. They also ban attempts to defraud community members.
The government advises immediate action for potential victims. Anyone concerned should contact the police through Action Fraud. The DVSA confirms it fully investigates all allegations of testing fraud. They maintain a robust process to protect test integrity. The public must remain vigilant against these deceptive and illegal offers.
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