Fake TV Licensing renewal failure and direct debit declined email

What is this scam?

A new wave of phishing emails impersonating TV Licensing tells recipients their licence could not be renewed because their direct debit payment was declined. The email, often sent from a Japanese-registered '.jp' domain, provides a link to 'restart' the renewal. TV Licensing only sends renewal reminders by post or via official gov.uk email addresses — any unsolicited renewal email containing a payment link is fraudulent. This is distinct from earlier TV Licensing refund scams; this variant exploits fear of fine or prosecution.

Example scam message

Red flags to look out for

• The message creates urgency — threatening a fine, missed delivery, or account closure.
• Links lead to unofficial domains that don't match the real company's website.
• You weren't expecting this message and can't verify the event it references.
• It asks you to confirm payment details or personal information via a link.
• The sender's number or email address doesn't match the company's official contact.

What to do if you receive this

1. Do not click links or call numbers provided in the message.
2. Contact the organisation directly using details from their official GOV.UK page.
3. Forward the message to 7726 or email report@phishing.gov.uk.
4. Report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk.