Parking Fine Text Scam Messages

How the Scam Works

• Urgency & Fear: Messages often threaten immediate legal action, license revocation, or damage to your credit score if you do not pay within a short timeframe (e.g., 24 hours).
• Convincing Websites: The provided link leads to a fake website designed to look like the official GOV.UK or local authority pages, featuring correct logos and fonts.
• Personal Data Theft: These sites prompt you to enter your vehicle registration, name, and bank details, which scammers use for financial fraud or identity theft.

Red Flags

• Generic Language: The message often lacks specific details like where or when the alleged offence occurred.
• Suspicious Sender: The text typically comes from a random mobile number or an unknown international code.
• Incorrect Domain: Fake links often use non-government domains such as .vip, .top, or .date instead of the official .gov.uk or .gov.
• Faulty Logic: Some scams claim to be from the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency), which does not issue or handle parking fines.

What to Do

1. Do Not Click: Avoid clicking any links or scanning QR codes in the message.
2. Report the Text:
   • UK: Forward the message for free to 7726 (the "SPAM" number).
   • US: Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your state's Attorney General.
3. Verify Independently: If you think you might have a real fine, check the official council or government website directly by typing the URL into your browser—never use the link from the text.
4. If You Paid: Immediately contact your bank to freeze your accounts and report the fraud.