TIPS

How to spot a fake e-vignette website before you pay

Jan 8, 20264 min read

As e-vignettes have become the standard way to pay for motorway access, unofficial websites have followed close behind: some simply overpriced, others outright scams. A few careful checks before you enter your card details can save you money and protect your data.

Why fake sites are convincing

Search results for "buy vignette [country]" often mix official government portals with third-party resellers, and some imitation sites copy official branding closely enough to pass a quick glance.

Price is often the first clue

If a site charges noticeably more than the country's published official rate, or adds vague "service fees" that aren't itemized, that's a strong signal you're not on an official channel.

What to check before you pay

Legitimate vignette providers clearly state the country's official price, explain their own service fee if one applies, and provide immediate confirmation with the details you entered. Look for a secure connection, a clear company name and contact information, and reviews or references outside the site itself.

A quick pre-purchase checklist

Compare the price against the country's official published rate.
Look for a clearly stated, itemized service fee rather than a vague markup.
Check that the site uses a secure connection and lists real contact details.
Confirm you receive an immediate email confirmation with your correct vehicle details.
When in doubt, search for the country's official vignette portal directly.

A genuine e-vignette purchase should feel straightforward and transparent. If something feels off, it's worth taking an extra minute to verify before you pay.