DVLA issues ‘think before you click’ message to millions of drivers
The DVLA shared an alert on X (stock image) (Image: Getty)
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued an alert to drivers throughout Great Britain. The Government agency, which oversees more than 47 million vehicle records, has expressed particular concern over fraudsters and is urging motorists to remain vigilant.
On X, formerly Twitter, 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 http://GOV.UK. Protect yourself with DVLA’s top tips.” Almost 20,000 customers contacted the DVLA’s call centre in 2024 to report fraudulent activity.
The agency has emphasised that criminals are employing ever more sophisticated tactics to deceive drivers, making it vital to adhere to four essential guidelines. Most importantly, the Government’s official website should be the sole source for accessing legitimate DVLA information and services.
Utilising alternative websites for such services could result in being overcharged for something the DVLA provides at a reduced cost or entirely free of charge. In the most serious cases, these sites may be outright fraudulent.
Furthermore, the DVLA has warned drivers not to share their driving licence or vehicle details online. Whilst it may be tempting to hastily post on social media, log books and licences contain sensitive information that fraudsters could exploit to commit identity theft.
In a blog from December 2025, the DVLA explained: “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.
“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.”
Beyond this, the DVLA warned drivers to remain vigilant against suspicious emails and text messages requesting personal information. Fraudsters may also create fake websites that mimic the DVLA.
No matter how authentic it appears, drivers should always seek genuine vehicle services through the Government’s official website. “Fraudsters will often send emails or text messages to unsuspecting victims asking them to confirm personal details, such as bank or payment information,” the advice continued.
“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.
“And vehicle tax refunds are issued automatically – never via an email with a link! If you receive one of these emails or texts, do not click on any links.”
If you suspect you’ve encountered an online scam, the DVLA advises you to report it to one of three official services. These are:
You can also subscribe to email alerts from the DVLA to stay up to date with its latest information.
The DVLA’s four key rules
- Only use GOV.UK
- Never share your driving licence or vehicle information online
- Beware of emails and texts asking you to confirm personal details
- Beware of websites impersonating the DVLA
Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source.
Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
