Since April 2, 2025, most EU citizens have required an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom. In connection with the application for this authorization, authorities are warning of fraudulent websites that bear a deceptive resemblance to the official British government website. These fake portals attempt to steal personal data and charge applicants significantly higher fees than the official 16 British pounds (approximately 18 euros) from their accounts.
The North Rhine-Westphalia State Office of Criminal Investigation, for example, warns against numerous providers offering online services for ETA applications, often prominently positioned in search engine results. For this supposed assistance, they often charge several times the actual price, and the actual costs for applicants are not always transparently disclosed. The police have already filed reports in which victims report charges of up to 200 euros for a single entry permit.
The police strongly advise using only the two official channels for applying for an ETA: the official UK government portal and the official UK ETA app, available in the Apple and Google app stores. These two methods ensure that applicants pay the correct fee and submit their personal information securely.
Anyone who suspects they have been scammed by a fraudulent website should immediately report the scam to the police. This can help prevent further fraud and prosecute the perpetrators. The British government, for its part, has published information and warnings regarding fraudulent ETA websites to raise awareness among travelers.
and 