The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a warning that drivers are being “targeted” by scammers and encouraged motorists to “protect” themselves from fraudsters. In a message shared on social media platform X, the DVLA said: “Scammers are targeting drivers with fake texts and emails pretending to be DVLA. Think before you click. Don’t share personal info. Always use GOV.UK. Protect yourself with DVLA’s top tips.”
20,000 reports of fraudulent activity in 2024
On the Government website, the DVLA warned that fraudsters are “increasingly” employing “more sophisticated ways” to deceive their victims. It claimed that in 2024, approximately 20,000 people reported fraudulent activity from scammers posing as the authority. The DVLA stated: “It has never been more important for motorists to be vigilant and aware of how to recognise fraudulent emails, texts, websites and calls.”
Only use GOV.UK for official DVLA services
GOV.UK is the “only place” to obtain official information regarding DVLA and its services. “Using any other website could mean you'll be charged more for services that are either cheaper or completely free on GOV.UK,” the DVLA stated. “Other websites may even be fraudulent, so our advice is to always use GOV.UK when transacting with DVLA.”
Never share driving licence or vehicle details online
The DVLA cautioned against sharing your driving licence or vehicle details online. “Getting your driving licence is a big milestone, and you may be tempted to share your new shiny licence or V5C (log book) on social media,” it noted. “However, both documents contain key identifying details that scammers can use to steal your identity or even clone your vehicle. And before you know it, you could be receiving parking, congestion or speeding fines that you were not responsible for.”
Beware of phishing emails and texts
If an email or text message requests confirmation of personal information, you should exercise extreme caution. The DVLA warned: “Fraudsters will often send emails or text messages to unsuspecting victims asking them to confirm personal details, such as bank or payment information. They may even send messages that claim you are entitled to a hefty vehicle tax refund. DVLA will never ask you for your bank account details or ask you to confirm payment details. We will only ask you to confirm your personal details by email or text if you have a live enquiry with us.”
The organisation emphasised that vehicle tax refunds are always processed automatically - never through links distributed via email. Should you receive such emails or texts, avoid clicking any links. Instead, report it to the National Cyber Security Centre and delete the message straight away.
Watch out for fake websites impersonating the DVLA
The DVLA warns that fraudsters develop websites designed to mimic the official DVLA platform and may look genuine. “These sites will often charge additional fees for services you can get for free or at a lower cost on GOV.UK, including driving licence applications, vehicle tax transactions and Clean Air Zone (CAZ) payments,” it explained. “If you need to use these or any other government services, always search for them on GOV.UK.”
How to report online scams
If you come across any of these scams or any other suspicious activity, you can play your part in combating fraud by: reporting phishing emails to the National Cyber Security Centre, reporting online scams to Report Fraud (previously known as Action Fraud), and reporting misleading adverts to search engines. For more information, visit the Government website.
