Drivers warned over QR code parking scam
We're issuing the advice to make sure that drivers don't fall foul of the scam. It comes after two recent incidents where fake QR codes were found in the borough's car parks.
The codes are attached to payment machines, on signs or barriers within car parks to defraud unsuspecting drivers. When scanned, the codes trick people into entering credit and debit card information into fake websites. These websites may mimic those of genuine payment providers.
The scam causes several issues for victims:
- they end up paying money to scammers and giving their card details
- it could lead to parking fines as victims have failed to pay the correct parking fare via the correct channels
We don't use any QR codes in our car parks.
Lead Councillor for Commercial Services, Cllr Catherine Houston, said:
"We are aware of the increase in QR code parking scams across the country and I want to reassure residents that our teams regularly inspect our car parks to keep them safe and free from fraudulent activities.
"Criminals are becoming more sophisticated in their methods so if you do spot a QR code in one of our car parks, please don't scan it; report it to the Council instead.
"By raising awareness of such scams, we help to protect drivers from being misled so that residents and visitors can use our car parks in confidence."
Don't get caught by parking scams: Tips from our Parking Team
- QR Codes: If you arrive at a car park and you need to use 'Pay by Phone' always download the app from the App Store or Google Play. Never use the QR codes as they may not be genuine.
- Parking Charge Notices (PCN): A PCN will usually be left on your car or sent to you through the post. Only ever respond to a PCN from a reliable source and if you're unsure, visit the genuine website for the Council or parking company who issued the fine. The site should have trusted links you can use which will confirm if the PCN with your vehicle registration is valid.
This scam does appear to be on the increase and unsuspecting members of the public may occasionally fall victim to it. However, we're doing our utmost to minimise its impact, alongside our suppliers and the Police.
Having been made aware of the issue, we've put signs next to payment equipment in all our car parks. These signs remind customers to only download the RingGo parking app via the App Store and Google Play. The signs also instruct visitors to not attempt to access payment services via QR codes that they may find in and around the car parks.
Our enforcement team monitors car parks daily and immediately removes any rogue QR codes found.
How you can report a fake QR code
If you spot QR codes on parking machines or signage:
- contact the police on 111 or
- contact us on 01483 505050