Fake ITV online booking scam detected in Vega Baja: drivers affected

A fake ITV online booking scam in Vega Baja has affected several drivers after a fraudulent website was discovered imitating official vehicle inspection booking portals. The fake platform charged higher-than-official fees and assigned appointment dates that did not exist in the real system of authorised Inspection Stations.

According to available information, users completed reservations and made payments believing they were using an official channel. However, upon arriving at the ITV station, they were informed that no appointment had been registered in the official database.

How the scam worked

The scammers created a website visually similar to official ITV operators. The process included station selection, date choice and online payment, followed by an automatic confirmation that appeared legitimate.

The fraud became evident when drivers arrived for the inspection and the official system showed no record of any booking. In several cases, the amount charged exceeded the regulated inspection fee in the Valencian Community.

Risks of driving with an expired ITV

Driving with an expired ITV certificate in Spain may result in administrative fines. The penalty amount depends on the type of infringement and, in certain cases, authorities may immobilise the vehicle.

Additionally, lacking a valid ITV certificate may affect insurance coverage in the event of an accident, increasing the financial risk for the vehicle owner.

How to avoid ITV booking fraud

Authorities recommend using only official websites of authorised operators and carefully verifying the web domain before making any payment.

Drivers are also advised to check that the company provides identifiable legal information, keep electronic booking confirmations and report any suspected fraud to the National Police or the Civil Guard.

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