Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP David Mundell is warning holiday makers to be aware of costly copycat websites when making passport enquiries.
As the summer holidays approach the local MP is reminding people to contact Her Majesty’s Passport Office directly for any passport enquiries.
Copycat websites offer basic information about the passport application process and can appear to be the official agency, but charge a premium for their services.
Some companies are reported to charge up to £40 for information that is available online.
Going to HM Passport Office directly can save money and speed up receipt of your new passport.
Mr Mundell said: “It’s totally unacceptable that unscrupulous companies are continuing to trick people into paying for information which is available free of charge from the Passport Office. The last thing you want before going abroad is having to pay out additional money for nothing.
“I am pleased action has already been by the Advertising Standards Agency to fine owners of rogue sites and ensure they do not use official logos or branding, and that the Passport Office continue to monitor these sites and explore new ways to counteract activities. However, the speed at which new sites and scams are set up online means that you can never be too careful and I would strongly encourage any of my constituents who are planning to go abroad and have queries about passports to contact the Passport Office directly.” he added.
Anyone in need of a passport this summer can obtain an application form for free from their local Post Office, fill it out online at www.gov.uk/browse/abroad/passports or call the official help line on 0300 222 0000.
The Post Office offer a Check and Send service to check your form is correct and that costs just £8.75 on top of the standard passport fee of £72.50. Remember to allow three weeks for your new passport to arrive and longer for first time applicants.