The DVLA has issued an urgent update to millions of UK drivers as they are being targeted.

Millions of motorists are being told ‘don’t click’ as scammers ramp up attempts to trick drivers into handing over cash and personal details. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a blunt warning after almost 20,000 customers contacted its call centre to report suspected fraudulent activity.

In a social media alert, 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 http://GOV.UK”

Fraudsters are increasingly using sophisticated emails, text messages and copycat websites to lure in unsuspecting motorists – often claiming they are due a vehicle tax refund or must urgently update their details.

DVLA said: “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.”

The agency stressed that the only place to access official DVLA services is GOV.UK and warned that using other sites could mean drivers are charged more – or worse, fall victim to outright fraud.

Scams catching drivers out

Criminals commonly:

• Send texts or emails asking motorists to ‘confirm’ bank or payment details
• Claim drivers are owed a hefty vehicle tax refund
• Set up websites impersonating DVLA and charging extra fees
• Encourage drivers to click links leading to fake payment portals

DVLA made clear: “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.”

It added: “Vehicle tax refunds are issued automatically – never via an email with a link!”

Documents you should never post online

Motorists are also being warned against sharing images of their driving licence or V5C log book on social media.

Both contain key identifying details that criminals can exploit to steal identities or even clone vehicles – potentially leaving innocent drivers facing parking tickets, congestion charges or speeding fines they did not rack up.

DVLA’s top tips to stay safe

• Only use GOV.UK for DVLA services
• Never share photos of driving licences or V5C documents online
• Avoid clicking links in unexpected emails or texts
• Report phishing emails to the National Cyber Security Centre
• Report online scams via Report Fraud

The majority of DVLA services – from taxing a vehicle to updating licence details – are available online via GOV.UK here.

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