Drivers are being warned over ongoing social media scams, tricking victims into thinking they’re eligible for compensation.
It comes after the aftermath of the ‘Dieselgate’ scandal that erupted in 2015, with many diesel vehicle owners in the UK finding themselves potentially eligible for compensation.
It primarily revolved around car manufacturers installing ‘defeat devices’ that manipulated emissions tests to meet legal standards, only to significantly exceed these limits under normal driving conditions.
Dom Watt, motoring expert at First Vehicle Leasing said: “By staying vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself from falling victim to social media scams related to diesel emissions compensation claims.
“Always prioritise safety and privacy, and when in doubt, seek advice from trusted sources before proceeding with any claims process.”
Recognising Social Media Scams
Unsolicited Offers: Be wary of unsolicited messages or advertisements claiming to offer easy compensation claims. Legitimate law firms and claims services typically do not reach out to potential clients through direct messages on social media.
Too Good to Be True Promises: Scammers may promise guaranteed compensation or unusually high payout amounts with little to no proof or requirement from your side. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Requests for Upfront Fees: Any request for payment upfront should be considered a red flag. Legitimate legal services for compensation claims usually operate on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, where they only collect a fee if the compensation claim is successful.
Demand for Personal Information: Be cautious of any requests for sensitive personal or financial information over social media. Scammers might use this information for identity theft or unauthorised transactions.
Tips to Avoid Social Media Scams
Verify the Source: Before engaging with any service offering to help with diesel emissions claims, research the firm or individual to verify their legitimacy. Look for reviews, check their website, and ensure they are authorised by relevant regulatory bodies.
Use Official Channels: If you believe you’re eligible for compensation, contact a reputable law firm directly through their official website or phone number, rather than responding to social media solicitations.
Educate Yourself: Familiarise yourself with how the compensation claim process works and what legitimate offers might look like. The more you know, the less likely you are to fall for a scam.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a potential scam, report it to the social media platform and consider alerting authorities if you’ve shared any personal information. This can help prevent others from falling victim to the same scam.
