Scam QR Code on Parking - How to Protect Yourself

The scam operates by stealing personal data and banking information. Victims believe they are paying for a parking session, but the money goes straight to the fraudster—often resulting in automated, recurring monthly charges of £60 or more. Because no real parking session is ever booked, drivers also risk receiving an official penalty charge notice (PCN).

How to Spot and Avoid the Scam

• Physical Inspection: Feel the QR code to check if it is a raised sticker placed over original signage.
• No QR Policies: Many UK local authorities, such as Durham County Council, explicitly state they do not use QR codes for parking payments.
• Official Mobile Apps: Open the official Apple App Store or Google Play Store directly to download parking apps. Do not click app download links generated by real-world QR codes.
• Location Codes: Manually type the 4-to-6-digit parking location code directly into an established app rather than scanning the meter.
• URL Verification: Check the browser address bar for mismatched characters, poor grammar, or unbranded web domains.
• Built-in Scanners: Use your phone’s standard camera app instead of third-party QR scanner apps, which often inject malicious ads.

What to Do If Targeted

If you have entered your financial details into a suspicious parking website:

1. Contact Your Bank: Immediately notify your bank to freeze your payment cards and block any unauthorized recurring subscriptions.
2. Report to Authorities: Flag the incident online to Action Fraud or call the police non-emergency line at 101.
3. Alert the Landowner: Inform the local council or the private parking operator so their wardens can physically remove the fraudulent stickers.