The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has issued a public alert over what it describes as “fake SMS payment links” and coordinated online scams targeting motorists with fraudulent fine notifications.
According to the Authority, fraudsters have been sending unsolicited text messages to members of the public, often containing links that redirect users to fake websites designed to mimic official platforms.
Once accessed, victims are prompted to pay alleged traffic or licensing fines under claims of “urgent payment deadlines” and “discounted penalties” — practices the DVLA says are entirely illegitimate.
The DVLA emphasised that it does not operate any discount-based fine collection system. It stressed that any message suggesting “discounted DVLA fines” or special settlement offers should be treated as fraudulent and ignored.
The Authority further clarified that the only approved digital channel for official payments is the Government of Ghana’s central e-payment platform, the Ghana.gov.gh portal. It warned that any other website, shortened link, or unofficial payment page claiming affiliation with the DVLA is a scam.
Members of the public have been urged to avoid clicking suspicious links, not to enter personal or financial information on unverified platforms, and to rely strictly on official communication channels. The DVLA also advised individuals to verify all transactions through its official website or accredited offices.
It added that suspicious messages should be reported to the nearest DVLA office or relevant law enforcement agencies for investigation, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the public from fraudulent digital schemes and ensuring secure, government-approved transactions.
