Hertfordshire Police have warned motorists not to be fooled by "ULEZ scams".

The force said it is “inevitable” that scam websites will be created to dupe drivers trying to pay Transport for London’s (TfL) charge, after it was expanded to cover all London boroughs on Tuesday (August 29).

Anyone travelling into the capital who has a vehicle that doesn’t comply with the regulations will have to pay £12.50 per day and motorists can pay online, meaning they could end up accidentally using a scam website.

Police, via an Online Watch Link alert this morning (September 1), said: “It is inevitable that there will be scam websites popping up to part you from your money, so if you search online where to pay, please check carefully that you have chosen a legitimate website.”

The alert added: “If you spot a scam please report to Action Fraud which may help other people from losing their money to a fake website.” 

The TfL website also includes a warning about unofficial sites when paying the congestion charge, LEZ, and ULEZ.

It says: “Unfortunately, internet search engines do not always put our pay to drive in London page or other relevant payment pages at the top of their search results.

“This means you may find yourself being offered one of many unofficial online payment sites.”

Some claim to offer additional services and pay TfL on individuals’ behalf but there have apparently been cases where they do not actually transfer the money on, take payments the driver did not really owe, make misleading claims, and use premium rate numbers or directly charge premiums.

TfL added: “We continually work with search engine companies such as Google, as well as Trading Standards and the Advertising Standards Authority, to try to remedy the situation.”

Payments can also be made through the TfL Pay to Drive in London App, by phone, or by setting up an auto pay account.

Payments can be made on the third day after the journey or up to 90 days in advance. The penalty charge for non-payment is £180, or £90 if paid within 14 days.