A number of Councils across the UK have warned drivers to be alert to fake QR codes that have been stuck on parking ticket machines.
The QR codes look like they are part of the council’s payment systems, but instead lead to fake websites that mimic sites such as RingGo or PayByPhone. Those using the QR codes think that they have paid for their parking and therefore also risk parking fines.
Scammers use the fake websites to obtain payment information, often leading to further fraudulent payments, or your device could be infected by malware.
Prevention advice
- Avoid using QR codes to pay for parking.
- Always use the official parking app to pay for parking or use the machine to pay in cash or via your debit/credit card.
- If you have been a victim of a scam and think you may have lost money, contact your bank immediately.
Not just parking scams
Scammers can print fraudulent QR codes on stickers and replace legitimate QR codes, in a restaurant as an example. If the QR code looks like a sticker or there are signs of tampering, consider double checking with an employee before paying.
As you scan the QR code, check that the URL of the website looks genuine. If it doesn’t look right, then don’t continue. Check that the website starts with https:// and not http://
Pay attention to any small spelling errors that may be in the web address.
For further discussion and support, including fraud awareness training, contact: Melanie Alflatt, Director – Risk and Advisory, Email: fraud@tiaa.co.uk or Contact Us