DVLA issues fresh alert to all UK drivers

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a warning to motorists across the UK amid growing concern of scammers targeting driver for their personal information. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), the agency cautioned: "Use GOV.UK for DVLA services or scammers may sneakily steal your personal details to commit fraud."

It is also urging drivers to remain vigilant and only use official government channels when accessing DVLA services. Scammers are creating websites, emails, and phone numbers that appear legitimate but are designed to steal your information or charge you for services that are free or cheaper via GOV.UK, it warns.

The message comes as fraudulent activity continues to rise, with criminals exploiting lookalike websites to mislead users. On its official website, the DVLA highlights the risks, explaining how these scams work and how to report them. To stay safe, always search directly on GOV.UK for verified government services - especially when applying for something like a driving licence or updating your vehicle details.

On the website the DVLA linked to, it urged people to to the following:

• Report misleading websites, emails, phone numbers, phone calls or text messages you think may be suspicious
• Do not give out private information (such as bank details or passwords), reply to text messages, download attachments or click on any links in emails if you’re not sure they’re genuine.
• Forward suspicious emails to [email protected] - the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) will investigate it.
• Forward suspicious text messages to 7726 - it’s free.
• Report scam or misleading adverts to the Advertising Standards Authority. You can report adverts found online, including in search engines, websites or on social media
• report scam or misleading adverts to Google if you found them in Google search results
• report to Bing if you found them in Bing search results

If you feel like you're a victim and may have fallen for a scam, it's important to act quickly. The DVLA advises victims to report the incident to Action Fraud. You can do this online by creating an account or continuing as a guest. If you're unable to report it online, you can call the helpline on 0300 123 2040. This service is for residents in England and Wales. If you're in Scotland, you should report the crime directly to Police Scotland.