THE DVLA has issued an urgent warning to drivers selling their cars – and it could cost you thousands if you’re caught out.
Many drivers are choosing to sell their vehicles privately amid rising costs for new products.
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When selling a vehicle, owners must provide their V5C logbook.
But the DVLA warns posting it online puts you at risk of fraud.
In a Twitter statement, the DVLA said: “Stay safe online – don’t share photos of your V5C log book on social media or selling sites, as scammers can use them for identity theft.”
This logbook contains personal information which scammers can use to commit crimes, potentially costing you thousands.
Scammers could even access bank accounts and take out phone contracts.
These V5C documents contain information including the car’s registration mark, the VIN number, and the document reference number.
If scammers get hold of these details, they can create cloned licence plates.
One motorist on MoneySavingExpert said: “I listed my car on Autotrader just over a week ago, the first interested buyer that came to look at the car has somehow taken the reference number from the v5 and registered my car in a new name and address.
“I must admit, the man seemed nice and polite but I have been well and truly scammed.”
Anyone who believes they are the victim of a scam or notices suspicious behaviour should inform Action Fraud and the DVLA.
Drivers should also beware of other common car fraud, such as fake texts and second-hand sale scams.
Things to remember when selling your car
Before you sell your vehicle, check your log book (V5C) is up to date – you may not get a refund for any full months left on your vehicle tax if your details are incorrect.
Protect your log book – but you can show potential buyers your log book so they can make sure the details match your vehicle.
Never share your logbook document reference number or pictures or copies of your log book.
You must tell DVLA you’ve sold the vehicle and give them the full name and address of the buyer. If you do not do this, any vehicle tax refund you’re owed might be affected.
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