Parking Fine Scam

Council warns drivers of parking fine text scam

03 September 2025

Drivers in the borough are being warned about parking fine scams that have come to the attention of the Council s parking service.

Motorists are being warned about the scams received by text message threatening licence suspension, court action or even credit score damage.

Cheshire West and Chester Councils Director of Environment and Communities, Maria Bryne said: "Our parking team has recently been made aware of these scams. They may appear urgent or official, but they are not and they will include a link to a fake payment page.

If you receive such a message, please do not click the link or enter any personal or payment details. We urge residents and visitors to remain vigilant and be aware of such scams.

Please note that the Council do not send Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) for a parking contravention by text. Genuine PCNs are issued as physical tickets that are attached to your vehicle's windscreen or sent by post.

Stay safe:

• Ignore and delete suspicious texts.
• Report scam texts by forwarding them to 7726 (free from most UK networks).
• Visit the Council's website page on staying safe from scams if you're unsure.
• If you think you've been affected, contact your bank immediately and report the scam to Action Fraud.