The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has cautioned the public against fraudulent text messages and online payment links being used by scammers to extort money from unsuspecting motorists under the guise of collecting fines. In a public notice issued on Wednesday, October 21, the Authority expressed concern over the activities of fraudsters who send fake SMS messages while impersonating the DVLA to demand payments from members of the public. According to the Authority, the messages contain links directing recipients to fraudulent websites or payment platforms, where they are prompted to settle fines they are allegedly required to pay.
The DVLA noted that some of the messages use pressure tactics, including payment deadlines and promises of discounted fines, to convince recipients to make payments without verifying the authenticity of the claims. The Authority has dismissed the messages as fraudulent and urged the public to ignore them. “The DVLA wishes to categorically inform the general public that these messages are fraudulent and must be disregarded,” the notice stated.
It further emphasised that it does not offer discounts on fines, warning motorists against messages, websites, platforms or individuals claiming to provide such offers. “The DVLA does not offer discounts on fines. Any SMS, website, platform, or person claiming to offer discounted DVLA fines is fraudulent,” the statement added.
The warning is intended to raise public awareness of the tactics scammers use to exploit attractive offers and create a sense of urgency, prompting people to make payments before confirming whether the requests are genuine. The Authority advised motorists not to assume that a message is authentic simply because it refers to a fine or appears to originate from an official source. Instead, it urged recipients to verify all payment requests through the DVLA’s recognised communication channels before taking any action.
The DVLA also clarified that Ghana.gov.gh, the Government of Ghana’s official payment platform, is the only approved online payment gateway for its transactions. It warned that any other website or unofficial payment link purporting to represent the Authority should be treated as fraudulent.
The Authority identified its official website as www.dvla.gov.gh, encouraging the public to use the platform to confirm information about its services and transactions. “The only acceptable online payment gateway for DVLA transactions is the Government of Ghana’s official payment platform, https://www.Ghana.gov.gh,” the notice stated.
It added that any website, shortened link or other online platform claiming to represent the DVLA outside its authorised channels should be approached with caution. As part of efforts to protect motorists from these scams, the Authority advised the public against clicking on suspicious links, sharing personal information or making payments through unofficial platforms.
It also encouraged motorists to verify information about DVLA services through its official website, recognised offices and approved public communication channels. The DVLA urged anyone who receives a suspicious text message to report it to the nearest DVLA office or the appropriate law enforcement agency for investigation and further action.
