The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has warned the public to be vigilant against a growing cyber scam involving fake SMS messages designed to trick motorists into paying fraudulent traffic fines online.
In an official statement, the Authority said it has been monitoring the activities of cybercriminals who send deceptive text messages containing malicious payment links while falsely claiming to collect official traffic fines on behalf of the DVLA.
According to the Authority, anyone who clicks on the embedded links is redirected to cloned websites that imitate legitimate government platforms. Victims are then prompted to pay supposed DVLA traffic penalties.
To pressure unsuspecting motorists into making payments, the fraudsters often create a false sense of urgency by claiming that fines must be settled immediately or by offering fake discounts on penalties.
The DVLA stressed that such messages are fraudulent and should be ignored.
“The DVLA does not offer discounts on fines. Any SMS, website, platform, or person claiming to offer discounted DVLA fines is fraudulent,” the Authority stated.
The Authority further clarified that the only approved online platform for official DVLA payments and transactions is the Government of Ghana’s central electronic payment portal, Ghana.gov.gh.
It also reminded the public that its only verified corporate website is dvla.gov.gh.
Motorists have been advised not to click on suspicious links, disclose personal or financial information, or make payments through unverified digital platforms.
The DVLA urged the public to verify all licensing services, traffic fines, and payment requests through official DVLA offices or recognised communication channels before making any payments.
The Authority also encouraged anyone who receives such fraudulent messages to report them immediately to the nearest DVLA office or law enforcement agency for investigation.
