Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

TV Licensing Scam Email - How to Protect Yourself
TV Licensing Scam Email - How to Protect Yourself

If you have received an unexpected email claiming your TV Licence has expired or that a direct debit payment failed, it is highly likely a phishing scam. Scammers frequently copy the branding of the official UK TV Licensing body to steal personal information and bank details.

Real vs. Fake Email Messages

FeatureGenuine TV Licensing EmailScam Email
Sender AddressSent strictly from donotreply @tvlicensing.co.uk or donotreply @spp.tvlicensing.co.uk.Lookalike domains or random personal addresses (e.g., ending in .br or @mail.co.uk).
GreetingAlways includes your actual name or part of your postcode.Generic greetings like "Dear Customer" or just your email address.
ToneInformational or standard renewal reminders.Urgent threats of a £1,000 fine or immediate legal action.
LinksLeads directly to tvlicensing.co.uk or tvl.co.uk.Leads to hidden, random, or hyphenated URLs (e.g., tv-licence-refund-uk.com).
Data RequestsNever asks for mother's maiden name, date of birth, or card details via email.Prompts you to fill out forms with sensitive financial or personal data.

What to Do Next

  1. Do not click any links or download any attachments within the email.
  2. Do not reply to the sender.
  3. Check your account independently: If you are worried about your licence status, open a new browser tab and type in the official URL: TV Licensing Sign-In to check your account securely.

How to Report It

  • Forward the email: Send the suspicious message directly to the UK Government's National Cyber Security Centre at report@phishing.gov.uk. They will investigate and take down malicious websites.
  • If you already gave out information:
    • Contact your bank immediately if you entered any credit card or banking details.
    • Report the incident to Action Fraud online or call them at 0300 123 2040.
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