Every driver in the UK is at risk of being “scammed” at car parks across the country this summer, according to experts. Rhydian Jones, a leading car insurance expert at Confused.com, has raised the alarm about fake QR codes that are being slapped on the side of parking meters.
These fake QR codes are stuck on top of the real QR codes on the parking meter, making it almost impossible to tell them apart. However, the fake codes will send road users to a scam site, where they can extract personal details such as payment card information. To top it off, road users would not have paid for their parking session, meaning they may also be hit with fines later down the line.
Fake QR codes have popped up in car parks across the country with several councils recently raising awareness of the serious issue.
Rhydian said: “Our research shows that 1 in 5 (25%) drivers find paying for parking via an app more convenient. However, there are growing concerns that these systems can leave drivers vulnerable to scams, with criminals taking advantage of their popularity.
“If you’re using a parking machine, be cautious of QR codes, especially if they look like they’ve been stuck over the original display.”
PayByPhone, one of the UK’s leading digital parking companies, is already taking action to fight back against QR code scams.
The firm stressed they have now stopped providing Council and parking operating partners with QR codes.
Instead, road users are being encouraged to avoid QR codes and pay using an online app.
Fylde Council is among the councils that have battled fake QR scams and issued a major warning to all motorists last summer.
They posted: “We’ve investigated and found stickers with a large QR code have been placed on some of our car park pay and display machines and tariff boards.
“These stickers have been removed as far as we know. Please do not scan any, we are currently working to solve this issue.”
To avoid being caught out, drivers have been told to take a range of simple precautions such as analysing the QR Code in detail and verifying the link is accurate.
Rhydian added: “Where possible, use the official app you already have on your phone or download it directly from your app store. If that’s not an option, paying with cash or card is safer.
“If you do have to scan a QR code, check the website address carefully, it should start with https, and watch out for spelling mistakes or anything that doesn’t look quite right. If you’re unsure, call the car park operator to check.”