CWaC – risks of using QR codes to pay for parking

Council warns drivers of the risks of using QR codes to pay for parking.

Motorists are being warned about the risks of paying for parking using QR codes due to the increasing threat of scammers stealing private information and money.

'Quishing' is the word given to the growing criminal activity of placing these fake QR codes on parking payment machines in car parks to defraud drivers by duping them into entering credit and debit card information into fake websites.

The scam often has a double blow for victims, who not only hand over their payment information to thieves but also risk fines from councils or private firms for failing to pay the parking fee .

Cheshire West and Chester Council's Cabinet Member for Homes, Planning and Safer Communities, Councillor Christine Warner, said: "Our parking team is currently checking all council-owned car parks, but so far, only privately owned car parks in the borough have been affected."

"The QR codes link to a fraudulent website and dupe motorists into entering their credit and debit card information.

"Parking at a council-owned car park is paid for by cash or card at ticket machines in the car parks. Alternatively, pay by phone is available through APCOA, AppyParking, JustPark, PayByPhone and RingGo. The Council does not use QR codes for parking payments."

Cheshire West and Chester Council is urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant and aware of scams. Some motoring and financial organisations advise motorists to never use QR codes and only pay by cash, card, or official app.