V5C Fraud - Scammed by a buyer interested in my car

facade

I didn't think of that- just change the address, and leave the name, DVLA would just send a new V5 to the new address, the only way for the genuine keeper to find out is if they try to SORN/transfer it to another keeper, it wouldn't work as their V5 would be cancelled.

It wouldn't matter what name was on the V5 if it was to use in a scam.

You can apply for a V5 to any name & address using the V5c/2 "new keeper slip" number. I don't think DVLA contact the current keeper before issuing a new V5, they would send them a tax refund though.  (A lot of keepers don't send the V5 to DVLA or go online to record the sale, so DVLA have to issue the new V5 to a valid V5c/2)

Biggus_Dickus

afcj123 said:

Biggus_Dickus said:

Is this how it’s done?

It appears to be a simple online procedure to request a new V5c logbook if you pretend to be the registered keeper and you request a change of address.

If the scammer provides the V5c registration number, the car reg number and registered keepers present post-code a new V5c will be sent out to the scammers chosen address forthwith.

However, the registered keepers ‘name’ cannot be changed in this manner, just the address.

To change the V5c to a new name and address, whether transferred or sold, requires the full co-operation of the incumbent registered keeper.

The scammer, replete with dodgy (but convincing) V5c at the bogus address, then sells an identical cloned car to an unsuspecting buyer,...presumably for cash.

The seller then legs-it with the dosh and the happy buyer drives off in his low mileage, MOT’d bargain,...  oblivious to the fact that it’s a high-mileage shed , with no MOT and false number plates.

I think the above is a feasible scam;...I’m certainly no expert so please pick holes in anything I’ve posted.

 

I have been told by the police that the name on the V5 has definitely been changed as they confirmed that I am no longer the registered keeper. 

I hope DVLA change this as it is happening to people and it is far too easy for scammers to carry this out.

I’d be interested to know how the scammer managed to change the registered keepers ‘name’ as well as the address.

There appears to be two separate DVLA procedures if one wishes to change the registered keepers details.

Simply changing the registered keepers  address can be completed 100%  online;...however, changing both the registered keepers name and address at the same time involves sending the original V5c off to the DVLA.

Quote:

 “If you want to change your name and address at the same time, you can only do this by post.

You need to fill in the relevant sections of the log book and send it to DVLA.”

https://www.gov.uk/change-address-v5c/change-name-address-v5c

 

Just to repeat, I’m no expert so please pick holes in anything above.

 

 

facade

I think that is if you want to change your own name & address (maybe you have assumed a new identity under witness protection , more likely it is if you change your name through marriage and move to your new marital home at the same time) so it doesn't increment the number of keepers, or cancel the tax.

If you want to change the keeper to the new owner, or say a fraudster wants to "steal" your vehicles identity, (and add 1 to "number of previous keepers") you/they just use the number on the V5c/2, and possibly the reg. number, but you certainly don't need any post codes or agreement from the current keeper.

Everything is done on line nowadays, fraud is endemic.

chrisw

Just a thought, the insurance companies usually ask whether you're the registered keeper. Many will only accept a different keeper being a relative. 

If you're no longer the registered keeper, I presume you'd have to let the insurance company know and they could theoretically refuse to insure you, although you would hope common sense would prevail.

Hasbeen

from 2019:  V5C Fraud - Beware — MoneySavingExpert Forum

mattyprice4004

In theory they could order a key from the dealership with the V5, then just walk up and take the car. I'd make sure it's blocked in etc personally!

Penelopa.Pitstop

Don't you have to programme new key in the system anyway? So ordering the key wouldn't be enough.

Herzlos

depends on the car, but most will require the car to be physically present in order to enable the key.

Tokmon

mattyprice4004 said:

In theory they could order a key from the dealership with the V5, then just walk up and take the car. I'd make sure it's blocked in etc personally!

This definitely can't be done without the car because as others have said it needs to be programmed to the car otherwise the immobiliser won't allow it to start.

victor2

Tokmon said:

mattyprice4004 said:

In theory they could order a key from the dealership with the V5, then just walk up and take the car. I'd make sure it's blocked in etc personally!

This definitely can't be done without the car because as others have said it needs to be programmed to the car otherwise the immobiliser won't allow it to start.

So how do they do it if the only key to your locked car has been lost? Just curious, as I hopefully will never be in that position.