Parking "fine" by Text

Patfig

Dear All,

I today got a text from Trace Debt Recovery telling me you have an outstanding balance please visit paydtr.co.uk to make payment and a case number. No mention of how much or for what?!

I called up spoke to a lady who after taking my name asked for address and post code which I didn't give. She then said she could not tell me what the fine was for or how much and if I didn't confirm my address etc the conversation was over so I rang off. I have received nothing in the post and moved house just over a year ago.

Should I have told her my address?

PF

oldernonethewiser

Is your logbook V5 up to date with your correct address?

https://thetracegroup.co.uk/frequently-asked-questions/

StewedApple

Should I have told her my address?

I always assume all cold callers are scammers (they're often quite plausible), so I would never disclose personally-identifiable data to such a caller - regardless.

ChirpyChicken

Easy

If the case reference begins with a 4 go here

https://portal.thetracegroup.co.uk/Registration

Patfig

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82147280#Comment_82147280

I called them

oldernonethewiser

How would they have your mobile number to send a text?

The website, which has a completely different address to the one you posted, (which doesn't actually resolve to any website when I tried it) mentions letters as means of communication.

StewedApple

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82147288#Comment_82147288

But you stated the original contact was via a text message - so the process was originated by them.

I may be more naturally suspicious than most people but I would not disclose any information to them.

If your driving licence and V5 are up to date then this data would be available to them via the DVLA - assuming they were entitled to it.

Patfig

OK I have found out it was for parking at Manchester airport. I used their short term parking for a couple of hours 2 or 3 weeks ago. I booked online and paid for 2 or 3 hours but I arrived 30 minutes early. I did leave early too though. I have had no letters or anything juts a text saying you owe us money. Now i have created a log in I can see it is £170

TBH If I overstayed by 30 mins I would happily pay for 30 mins or an hour at their exorbitant rate but £170 they can shove right up there.

oldernonethewiser

Does it specifically state it was for the airport parking?

And is your V5 up to date?

Patfig

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82147310#Comment_82147310

I will check my V5 when I get home from work

It says Balance £170 Client Manchester Airport

oldernonethewiser

Lots of threads about Manchester airport parking.

If the V5 is not correct that would explain the lack of any prior notification. Also carries a £1000 fine for being incorrect so worth making sure.