Parking Ticket Scam Alert: Blackburn with Darwen Council Warns Residents

Strategic Insights -

Residents in Blackburn with Darwen are being targeted by scammers claiming they owe money for unpaid parking tickets. The scammers send text messages threatening further action, including debt collection and legal proceedings, and offer legitimacy by referencing the DVLA. Council officials are urging residents to be cautious and forward suspicious texts to 7726 for investigation and potential blocking.

Key Takeaways:

  • Scammers are targeting residents of Blackburn with Darwen with fake parking ticket scams, which claim fines need to be paid promptly.
  • The scams threaten debt collection and legal proceedings if the fine is not paid, and offer legitimacy by referencing the DVLA.
  • Residents are advised to forward suspicious texts to 7726 for investigation and potential blocking.
  • Blackburn with Darwen Council has informed residents that legitimate parking tickets will not be sent via text message.
  • The police's Regional Organised Crime Unit Network has issued a warning to drivers to be cautious of this new scam crime.
  • The council has warned that clicking on links in suspicious texts can put residents' personal details at risk.

Statistics:

  • 5 times more residents have fallen victim to QR code scams in 2023 compared to 2022.
  • The police's warning was recently shared with residents, urging them to take caution.
  • The exact number of residents affected by the parking ticket scam is not specified in the source material.
  • The DVLA is referenced by the scammers to appear legitimate.

Sources:

  • Blackburn with Darwen Council
  • Police's Regional Organised Crime Unit Network