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Warning Issued Over Fake QR Codes in West Bay Car Parks

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Dorset Council has sounded the alarm over scammers placing fake QR codes on parking meters in West Bay, with the aim of stealing drivers' bank account details. The scam, which has been spotted in several car parks across the area, involves stickers with fake QR codes that direct users to counterfeit parking payment websites. If scanned, these codes can compromise users' personal and financial information, leaving them vulnerable to hefty fines. Authorities are urging residents and visitors to exercise caution when making parking payments and to report any suspicious QR codes to the council's Parking Services team.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dorset Council has confirmed that fake QR codes have been placed on parking meters in West Bay, with multiple car parks affected, including The Mound, Quayside, and The George car park.
  • The scammers' aim is to steal drivers' bank account details by directing them to fake parking payment websites that appear legitimate.
  • Dorset Council has stressed that QR codes are not used in the payment process for their car parking services, and drivers should instead use cash, card, or the JustPark service to make payments.
  • Genuine payments can be made at the pay and display meters by cash or card, or through the JustPark service, which is available through the app or by texting or phoning the number displayed.
  • Anyone who believes they have given bank details through one of the QR codes should contact their bank immediately and report the incident to Action Fraud or Dorset Council's Parking Services team.
  • Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council's Cabinet Member for Place Services, has warned the public not to scan QR codes on parking machines and to report any suspicious activity to the council's Parking Services team.

Statistics:

  • Multiple car parks in West Bay have been affected, including The Mound, Quayside, The George, and Swannery Car Park at Radipole Park drive.
  • The scheme has also been spotted in Weymouth, with other machines being checked in the area.
  • Dorset Council has issued a warning to residents and visitors not to use QR codes to pay for parking to avoid being caught out.

Sources:

  • Dorset Council officials
  • Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council's Cabinet Member for Place Services (cited in the article)

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