Fraud Alert: Fake QR Codes Scanning Parking Meters Across California
August 26, 2024 – California – A new wave of parking meter scams is sweeping across California, as fraudulent QR codes are being used to trick unsuspecting drivers into paying for parking through deceptive means. The scam has been reported in multiple cities, prompting a statewide warning for residents and visitors.
The scheme involves scammers placing counterfeit QR codes on parking meters, which redirect users to a bogus payment website when scanned. These fraudulent codes are designed to mimic the legitimate payment portals used by city parking systems, leading drivers to believe they are paying for their parking spot when, in reality, their money is being siphoned off by the perpetrators.
The issue first came to light earlier this month when several residents in Los Angeles and San Diego reported that their payments for parking had not been processed, even though they had followed the instructions on the QR codes displayed on the meters. An investigation revealed that the QR codes were fake and linked to a fraudulent website.
“We’ve received numerous complaints from frustrated drivers who have lost money due to these deceptive QR codes,” said Carla Hernandez, spokesperson for the California Department of Consumer Affairs. “It’s imperative that people remain vigilant and verify the authenticity of any QR codes they scan, especially when it comes to financial transactions.”
Authorities are advising the public to follow a series of precautionary measures to avoid falling victim to the scam. These include:
Verify the Source: Ensure that QR codes are placed by authorized personnel. If you see a code that looks out of place or seems tampered with, report it immediately.
Use Official Apps: Where possible, use official parking apps or websites rather than scanning QR codes on parking meters. Many cities offer mobile payment options that are directly linked to their parking management systems.
Inspect QR Codes: Look for signs of tampering or unusual placement of QR codes on parking meters. Authentic codes are typically printed on official stickers or tags.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a suspicious QR code or suspect fraud, report it to local law enforcement and the city’s parking authority.
The fraudulent QR codes have caused significant inconvenience and financial loss for many drivers, and city officials are working to address the issue. In response, several municipalities are enhancing their parking meter security and increasing surveillance to prevent further incidents.
“We’re taking this matter very seriously,” said David Robinson, Director of the San Diego Parking Authority. “We are collaborating with law enforcement to track down those responsible and ensure that our parking meters are secure from such fraudulent activities.”
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone who believes they have been scammed to contact their local consumer protection agency and file a report. Meanwhile, California’s cities are ramping up efforts to protect drivers and restore confidence in the safety and reliability of parking payment systems.