Scam warning
Got a parking fine by text? Check before you pay.
Fake parking fine texts are common. Real parking charge notices come on paper: on your windscreen, handed to you, or by post. Do not tap the link.
Last updated · How we check our content
Signs it is a scam
- It arrives by text or message out of the blue, often from a number you do not know.
- It asks you to tap a link, often a shortened or odd-looking web address, to enter your registration or card details.
- It gives no real details: no date, place, or company that issued the charge.
- It threatens a driving ban, court, or a big increase unless you pay now.
- It claims to be from the DVSA. The DVSA does not issue or deal with parking fines.
What to do
- Do not tap the link or reply.
- Forward the text to 7726. It is free, and lets your mobile network block the sender.
- Check directly with the council or parking company, using its official website or a paper notice you already have. Never use the details in the text.
- If you tapped the link or paid: call your bank now, then report it to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, or Police Scotland on 101.
Got a real paper notice?
A genuine charge can still be challengeable, and some are valid. Upload a photo for a free, honest check before you pay. See also debt collector and court letters explained.
Frequently asked questions
Does the DVSA or DVLA send parking fines by text?▼
The DVSA says it does not issue or deal with parking fines, so a text claiming to be a DVSA parking fine is a scam. Parking charges come from councils or private parking companies.
Can a real parking company contact me by text?▼
The British Parking Association says real parking charge notices are on physical paper and always include instructions on how to pay or appeal. If you use a parking app or an airport AutoPay account, it may message you about your own account. Check by logging in to the app yourself, never through a link in a message.
I clicked the link or paid. What now?▼
Call your bank straight away using the number on your card, then report it to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) if you are in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, or to Police Scotland on 101.
The text says I have a parking fine. How do I check if I really have one?▼
Do not use anything in the text. A real notice arrives on paper, on your windscreen, or by post to the registered keeper. If you are unsure, contact the council or parking company using contact details from its official website or from a paper notice you already have.
Sources
Have a real parking notice? Check it free
Upload the paper notice or letter. We tell you honestly whether it looks valid or challengeable.
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