Learner drivers have been urged to stay alert as TSB Bank reported a dramatic surge in scams targeting driving lessons and tests. The analysis revealed that between January and August this year, customers lost 211% more to these fraudsters compared to the previous year.
On average, llearner drivers who fell victim to these scam attempts lost £244, according to the bank. One victim paid £500 upfront for 20 lessons that never materialised.
Alex Robinson, head of fraud analytics at TSB, said: "Fraudsters have really upped their attempts to target learner drivers – with offers of driving lessons and fast-tracked tests that simply don't exist. Almost all of these scams start from social media platforms – so we'd advise only paying for a service if you can verify it first, and stick to official routes when booking your exam. Don't let a fraudster put the brakes on learning to drive."
The scams include offers of a 'fast-track' test to bypass the backlogs of driving tests at the DVLA. Fake lessons and even bogus DVSA websites have also been established to trick learner drivers into handing over their hard-earned cash.
A DVSA spokesperson told PA: "TSB's data shows that there is a serious and growing problem with this type of fraud. These accounts and sites are recognised scams that attempt to obtain payment or personal information and are not connected to DVSA.
"We take all allegations about test fraud extremely seriously and fully investigate reports of any individuals who attempt to circumvent the testing process. We urge people to report any suspicious social media accounts offering driving services to the relevant social media network."
TSB disclosed that one customer nearly fell victim to a scam, almost losing £100 after responding to a post promising a fast-tracked driving test. The bank managed to block the payment, confirming it was a fraudulent attempt.
To keep learner drivers ahead of these fraudsters, TSB experts have suggested three crucial checks before parting with money for any services related to driving lessons and tests. These include verifying the seller and service, and resisting the temptation to try unofficial routes and methods to obtain a licence out of desperation.
The experts pointed out some common phrases used by fraudsters in these scams, such as "fast-tracked" tests. They warned that these messages might even claim to be from official organisations.
Lastly, they stressed the importance of double-checking that learners are using an official website. In this digital age, scam websites can appear very convincing.
Both the Bank and DVSA are advising learners to only pay for verified services through official channels.
