The DVLA said scammers are targeting drivers with fake texts and emails pretending to be DVLA, and it never asks for bank account details or to confirm payment details via text or email. Vehicle tax refunds are issued automatically, not via email links, according to the DVLA. Drivers are also warned against posting photos of their driving licence or V5C logbook on social media, as criminals can exploit this information for identity fraud or to duplicate vehicles.
Imitation websites resembling official government services pose an emerging threat by imposing excessive fees and collecting personal and payment information, the DVLA reported. Nearly 20,000 motorists contacted the DVLA in 2024 to report suspected fraud, the agency said. If targeted by a suspicious message, drivers should refrain from clicking links or downloading attachments, report phishing emails to the National Cyber Security Centre, report scams through the official fraud reporting service, and delete the message, the DVLA advised.
UK for DVLA services. UK. The DVLA stated that with fraudsters increasingly using more sophisticated ways to trick their victims, it has never been more important for motorists to be vigilant and aware of how to recognise fraudulent emails, texts, websites and calls.
It remains unknown how many drivers have actually fallen victim to these scams and suffered financial losses, or what specific actions law enforcement agencies are taking to track down and prosecute the scammers. Additionally, it is unclear whether there are any particular regions or demographics in the UK that are being targeted more heavily by these scams.