Motability Scheme customers could be at risk of being targeted by malicious phone calls attempting to steal personal details. The scheme, run by Motability Operations, allows people receiving certain disability benefits to allocate some or all of their benefit towards leasing a new car, scooter, or wheelchair-accessible vehicle.

Eligible benefits for the scheme can include Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP), and War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS).

In addition to providing vehicles, the scheme also contributes towards maintenance costs, including insurance and repairs. While many customers maintain regular contact with the Motability Scheme regarding their vehicle, it is crucial to be aware of potential scammers looking to steal personal information.

Scammers may pose as representatives from the Motability Scheme or other legitimate organisations, including government departments like the DWP, in an attempt to trick victims into handing over sensitive details such as online passwords and banking information.

How to identify a Motability Scheme scam

The Motability Scheme website emphasises that they will never ring you up and ask for your bank details, refunds, or payments over the phone. This is particularly crucial if you are already expecting a call from them, as it could make it easier for malicious actors to scam you.

However, if you are already awaiting a payment from the scheme, remember that they will never ring you up to verify your bank or payment details over the phone. Advice from the scheme also states that if someone rings you asking for this information, you should not provide it to them.

But if you are making a payment to your vehicle dealer, they may ring you up to ask for payments towards the Advance Payment or any other extras you added. If you want to be especially careful, it’s recommended that you hang up the phone and ring the dealer directly to double-check with them before you giving any details.

What to do if you suspect you have been scammed

If you suspect you have fallen victim to a scam, it is vital that you report it to the appropriate authorities immediately. Firstly, you should inform your bank if you suspect your private financial details have been compromised or if you think your bank account is at risk.

If you receive any suspicious messages that you suspect to be a scam, they can be reported to the National Cyber Security Centre by simply forwarding the text for free to 7726. This allows your mobile provider to investigate the source of the text and potentially block or ban the sender.

Further details on the action you can take if you’re a victim of a scam can be found on Citizens Advice here.

Further details on the Motability Scheme’s advice for scams can be found online here.