Police departments in the U.S. are warning that scammers could be using a simple QR code sticker to steal credit card information while you’re paying for your parking.
Although the issue has largely been confined to Texas so far, especially in Austin, other police departments are warning local residents of the risk of the scam. It involves placing QR code stickers on parking meters that are disguised as quick pay options.
“This new phishing attack tactic uses the QR code to direct unsuspecting users to a fraudulent website to enter payment details to pay for their parking,” Massachusetts State Police wrote in a bulletin posted on Twitter. “Instead of paying for the parking spot, victims are unknowing [sic] handing banking and credit information directly to scammers.”
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🚨Scam Alert🚨
APD Financial Crimes detectives are investigating after fraudulent QR code stickers were discovered on City of Austin public parking meters. People attempting to pay for parking using those QR codes may have been directed to a fraudulent website and made a payment. pic.twitter.com/Gb8gytCYn7— Austin Police Department (@Austin_Police) January 3, 2022
Since QR codes are quick and convenient and the scammers are likely to set up a website that looks legitimate at first glance, the trick may be an effective one. Fortunately, Massachusetts State Police say they have not found any stickers yet, but the simplicity of the ruse may make it an attractive one for scammers.
The department is advising drivers not to scan or use any QR codes found on parking meters and to report them immediately to their local police departments or the Internet Crime Complaint Center.
In Austin, meanwhile, anyone who finds a fraudulent QR code sticker is encouraged to call 311 or go to ireportaustin.com to report the crime.
Beware of a new scam using QR codes on Parking Meters. See the attached bulletin for more information pic.twitter.com/BDPyQRFjT8
— Mass State Police (@MassStatePolice) January 12, 2022