Northern Ireland motorists are being urged to be vigilant following reports of a scam in relation to MOT test refunds here.
MOT centres across Northern Ireland have been left with a huge backlog of vehicles waiting to be examined after cracks in vehicle lifts were first detected in November.
With thousands of customers still waiting to get their car tested and ongoing temporary exemption certificates still being issued, the DVA say a scam text is currently circulating offering customers refunds for missed tests.
Urging customers not to click on the link, a spokesperson said: "The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) is aware that text messages are circulating, asking users to follow a link to get a refund for cancelled MOT tests. These messages are a scam - the DVA is not currently issuing text messages about refunds.
"DVA is currently only issuing texts as reminders to book MOTs, to call the priority contact line or attend for a test. If you have doubts about a message, check the text against information available on this page and use the contact details on the website . Do not use direct links from an unprompted message you have received."
Last week Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon announced the purchase of new car vehicle lifts for all Driver and Vehicle Agency MOT centres.
The 52 new lifts will be installed between April and mid-July at a cost of £1.8million as part of a number of measures the Minister has taken to resolve the MOT situation.
All customers whose MOT vehicle test is due, and who have not yet booked an MOT appointment, should do so immediately despite the backlog.
