Car Parking SCAM

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding Fraud, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

Car parking scams-Sainsbury's in Hall Lane E4 are on the rise, with fraudsters employing various methods to trick drivers into paying for parking fraudulently or stealing their financial information. Common tactics include fake QR codes on parking machines, scam text messages about parking fines, and skimming devices on payment terminals.
Common Car Parking Scams:
Fake QR Codes:

Scammers place stickers with fake QR codes over legitimate ones on parking machines or signs. These fake codes lead to phishing websites designed to steal personal and financial information when users try to pay for parking.

Scam Text Messages:

Drivers receive fake text messages about parking fines, often with a sense of urgency and a link to a fake payment website.
Card Skimming:
Fraudsters install skimming devices on payment terminals, which can steal credit card information when drivers pay for parking.

Copycat Websites:
Scammers create websites that closely resemble official parking authority sites, hoping to trick users into entering their details.
How to Protect Yourself:
Be cautious of QR codes:
If you see a QR code on a parking machine, be wary and check if it looks suspicious. If in doubt, avoid using it.
Verify the payment method:
If you're unsure about the legitimacy of a payment method, contact the parking authority directly to confirm.
Check for inconsistencies:
Compare the URL of the website with the official parking authority's website. Also, look for any inconsistencies in the pricing or language used.
Don't click on suspicious links:
Avoid clicking on links in text messages or emails that claim to be from a parking authority, especially if you're unsure of the sender.
Report suspicious activity:
If you encounter a scam, report it to the relevant authorities and your bank.
Key things to remember:
Real parking fines are typically sent by post, not by email or text.
Official parking authorities will not ask for payment via text message.
If you're unsure about the legitimacy of a parking payment, contact the parking authority directly.
Always be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Fraud can affect anyone within the community, so we want to make sure you have the tools and knowledge to protect yourself from it. It comes in many different forms and across varying channels, whether that's through emails, phone calls or in person encounters. Some adults may be even more vulnerable to fraud or financial abuse, but it is something that everyone can be at risk of. If you’re concerned about someone you know, please contact your local social services and ask for Adult Social Care.

Please see a few resources below to protect you and others from potential fraudsters: 

• Learn the ten golden rules to prevent fraud.
• Find out about the most common types of fraud.
• Download The Little Book of Big Scams to find out more. The Little Book of Big Scams audio version is also available.

For more information and help and to report fraud, go to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre. Lastly, if you think you’ve uncovered a scam, been targeted by a scam or fallen victim to fraudsters, please contact 101 or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at Action Fraud.

Get Involved

Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

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