Approximately 20,000 people reported the issue in one year alone
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has urged motorists to “never” do one thing online as they could be “targeted”. In 2024, around 20,000 people reported fraudulent activity from scammers impersonating the authority, it said.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, the DVLA said: “Unsure if the message you’ve received from DVLA is genuine? Learn how to spot scams with our official guidance.”
On the Government website, the DVLA warned that fraudsters are “increasingly” using “more sophisticated ways” to con their victims. It said: “It has never been more important for motorists to be vigilant and aware of how to recognise fraudulent emails, texts, websites and calls.”
As part of its guidance, it advised people to “beware” of certain emails, texts, and websites. And it warned people to “never” share driving licence or vehicle information online.
Here are the DVLA’s key recommendations on how you can stay safe online.
Never share your driving licence or vehicle information 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.”
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Only use GOV.UK
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.”
Be wary of emails and texts
If an email or text message requests confirmation of personal information, you should be extremely cautious. 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 sent via email. If you receive such emails or texts, avoid clicking any links. Instead, report it to the National Cyber Security Centre and promptly delete the message.
Beware of websites masquerading as the DVLA
The DVLA warns that scammers create websites designed to mimic the official DVLA platform and may appear 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.”
Reporting online scams
If you come across any of these scams or any other suspicious activity, you can help combat fraud by:
- Reporting phishing emails to the National Cyber Security Centre
- Reporting online scams to Report Fraud (previously known as Action Fraud)
- Reporting misleading adverts to search engines
For more information, visit the Government website here.
