Residents across Norfolk have been warned to be aware of 'copycat' websites when looking to make an application for a blue badge online.
Norfolk Trading Standards has issued the warning after a successful prosecution made by its eCrime Team (NTSeCT) against a man and his company for misleading consumers into paying £49 for blue badge applications.
Anyone looking to apply for or to renew a blue badge - which gives drivers with disabilities free parking in pay-and display-bays and allows them to park in specially-designated zones - should visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/bluebadges.
Lord Toby Harris, chair of National Trading Standards, said: 'Copycat websites such as these seek to profit from people looking for legitimate services online.
'If you ever need to search for government services, don't use a search engine, and remember that just because a website appears at the top of an internet search it may not be the best one to use.
'Go to gov.uk and search there instead. Anyone who comes across a copycat website can report it to the Citizens' Advice consumer helpline on 03454 040506.'
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