WIREDGOV

The OFT is warning consumers who wish to access government services to check whether they are visiting the official government website or the website of a business charging for processing services.

Searching on the internet for government services can bring up websites for businesses which offer to check, review and forward applications for a fee. Advertisements for these businesses may feature prominently in search results.

People looking for online government services such as applications for a European Health Card (EHIC) or booking a driving theory test should check to make sure they understand what they are paying for before they enter their payment card details. Many government services can be accessed online and can usually be obtained directly from the government at little or no cost.

It is not unlawful to provide reviewing and forwarding services, but businesses should make it clear on their websites that they are not affiliated to the government and that consumers will be paying for a service which they could obtain from government for free.

Advice from the OFT

• You can find all government websites via www.gov.uk.
• Always read the small print before you enter any information online, in particular payment card details.
• If you use an internet search engine, make sure you understand which links are advertisements and how to find the official website you are looking for. 
• Before you enter any details online, make sure you check and fully understand what you are paying for and always consider the small print .

Further advice

The Citizens Advice consumer service provides free, confidential and impartial advice on consumer issues. Visit www.adviceguide.org.uk or call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 08454 04 05 06.

See more information about the OFT's investigation into selling of government services.