Motorists on the Isle of Wight are being warned of two potential parking scams designed to trick people into paying the fraudsters.
The first involves scammers placing fake QR codes disguised as “quick pay” options on parking meters.
How they work
People scan the code and enter their credit card information thinking they are paying for the space, but instead, it directs them to a fake Website where scammers capture their payment details.
Real world example
A motorist recently had money taken from their bank account after trying to pay for parking in Sandown using a false QR code stuck to the machine.
They were later made aware of the fraud by their credit card company.
Parking meters being checked
Following the report, the council said parking meters were being checked for the stickers and emphasised that its pay and display machines do not offer payment via a QR code.
Bogus Website
Meanwhile, parking payment app provider, PayByPhone, has warned of bogus Websites created in an attempt to impersonate theirs and dupe drivers into entering their bank details.
These sites require people to register, then ask for their credit or debit card details and charge a subscription.
No subscription service
PayByPhone says it does not provide any subscription service and will never charge your card without your authorisation.
The company said it was working with the relevant authorities to have the false sites removed.
It said the authentic PayByPhone Website remained a secure platform with the highest level of security for processing payments.
Use PayByPhone
To avoid these scams, the safest and most secure way to use PayByPhone remains:
- Download the PaybyPhone app directly from the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Visit the official website by entering PayByPhone.co.uk directly into the search bar.
- Dial 0330 400 7275 to use the automated phone line.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
Image: © Isle of Wight Council
