Police are issuing a warning about QR code fraud in car parks – following reports of scammers targeting a number of sites in south Cumbria.
The car parks where fraudulent activity has been reported are: Broad Street car park in Windermere; Low Fold car park in Ambleside; Ferry Nab parking and Braithwaite Fold car park, both in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Stickers were placed on payment meters by fraudsters. Checks are being carried out and removal taking place.
Fraudsters may place fake QR codes in parking areas, including on official signage, to lead users to fraudulent websites designed to steal payment information.
Key advice to avoid parking QR code fraud:
- Don't scan stickers: If the QR code is a sticker, do not scan it. Legitimate operators rarely use stickers.
- Inspect before scanning: Check for signs of tampering, such as a sticker placed over the original, official signage.
- Use official apps or websites: Download the parking app directly from your app store rather than using a scanned link.
- Manually enter URL: If unsure, manually type the official website address into your browser.
- Check the URL: Ensure the website is secure (starts with https://) and matches the official provider.
- Alternative payment: If possible, use the physical parking machine, credit card or cash.
Anyone with information about fraud can contact Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
You can call police on 101 – or 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.