People warned about fake QR Code parking scams

Coventry City Council has received reports of fraudulent QR codes appearing on parking meters around the city. These fake codes are designed to trick users into entering their payment details on bogus websites.

These deceptive QR codes lead to unofficial websites that mimic genuine parking companies' official websites, and they may also appear as top search results online. Scammers use these sites to steal payment information, potentially causing financial loss and parking fines for unsuspecting motorists.

Similar scam notices have been found in other areas of the country. When a motorist scans the fake QR code, they are in danger of having money taken, and it also may expose them to parking fines as they may not be aware that they haven't purchased parking in the right way.

Trading Standards urge everyone to stay alert and only use official sources to prevent giving away their payment details. To ensure that people avoid being taken advantage of from scams like these, residents and visitors are strongly advised to only use the official parking apps, which are available for download from trusted sources such as the iOS App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery to avoid falling for scams like fake QR codes. Alternatively, people can download the app from the official parking websites.

If people come across a fake QR code or website that they believe is fraudulent, they can report it to the National Cyber Security Centre, and anyone who has fallen victim to this kind of scam is advised to contact their bank to stop any further funds being taken.

Published: Thursday, 10th October 2024