The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has warned drivers they are being “targeted” by scammers using fake texts, emails and websites designed to look official. As part of a wider public information push, the agency says fraudsters are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to trick motorists into handing over personal and financial details.
According to reports, around 20,000 people in 2024 told DVLA they had experienced suspected fraud from criminals pretending to be the agency. DVLA’s advice is simple: be wary of unexpected messages and always go directly to GOV.UK rather than clicking links.
DVLA statement on X
In a post on X, 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.”
How to report suspicious messages
The DVLA says anyone who spots a scam should report it. You can: report online scams to Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud), forward phishing emails to the National Cyber Security Centre, and report misleading adverts to search engines.
Watch out for “refund” traps
One of the most common tricks involves messages claiming you’re due a vehicle tax refund - but DVLA says it doesn’t work like that. The agency warns fraudsters often send texts or emails asking victims to “confirm” details such as bank account or payment information. DVLA says it will never ask for your bank details by text or email, and would only ever request confirmation of personal details if you already have a live enquiry with them. It also stresses that genuine vehicle tax refunds are processed automatically - not via links in messages. If a text or email urges you to click to claim money back, DVLA’s guidance is to avoid the link, report it, then delete the message.
Fake DVLA websites can look convincing
DVLA also warns about copycat websites designed to mimic official pages. These can appear legitimate but may charge extra fees for services you can get cheaper - or free - on GOV.UK. That includes things like: applying for a driving licence, paying vehicle tax, and making Clean Air Zone (CAZ) payments. DVLA says GOV.UK is the only official place for DVLA services, and using other sites could mean overpaying — or falling victim to fraud.
Don’t share licence or log book details online
Drivers are also being urged not to post images of their driving licence or V5C log book on social media. DVLA says both documents contain key identifying details that could be used to steal your identity or even clone your vehicle - potentially leaving you facing fines for parking, speeding or congestion charges you didn’t rack up.
