Protect Yourself from QR Code Scams in Car Parks

Amidst a worrying rise in QR code scams, extra patrols are being conducted in car parks around Cheltenham. Local council officers have intensified inspections to remove deceptive QR code stickers from payment machines following numerous scam reports. It’s crucial to note that none of the town’s official parking machines use QR codes for payment.

Understanding the Scope of the Problem

The issue is widespread, with Action Fraud reporting 784 incidents of QR code scams across the UK between April 2024 and April 2025. These scams have resulted in more than £3.5 million in losses. Katherine Hart, a lead officer for scams at the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, highlighted a significant increase in parking scams involving QR codes throughout England.

Scammers have become more sophisticated, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to recognize fraudulent QR codes. Therefore, it’s essential to remain vigilant and frequently monitor bank accounts for unauthorized transactions.

On-the-Ground Perceptions

Local residents and visitors have shared their concerns. Henry Soulsby Bentham, a volunteer at the Cheltenham Literature Festival, avoids interacting with electronic payment methods via his phone unless he is certain of their authenticity. He prefers face-to-face transactions. Claire Soulsby echoes this sentiment, opting to pay for parking with a card instead of scanning QR codes. She expresses a general mistrust of QR codes in car parks due to the potential risks of unknown downloads and redirections.

Spotting Fake QR Codes

For those navigating car parks, being able to identify fake QR codes is crucial. A spokesperson from Cheltenham Borough Council advised the public to remain cautious and recognize tell-tale signs of fraudulent codes. These can include QR codes that appear on payment meters without any associated branding or contextual information. Such codes might be hastily applied stickers, lacking any official endorsement.

Preventive Measures

To safeguard yourself from becoming a victim of these scams, consider the following tips:

• Verify before scanning: Always look for official branding or accompanying information that legitimizes the QR code.
• Use trusted payment methods: Opt for card payments or contactless options that you trust and are familiar with.
• Regularly monitor financial statements: Keep an eye on your bank accounts to quickly spot any unauthorized transactions.
• Report suspicious activity: If you encounter a suspicious QR code, report it to the relevant authorities to help prevent others from being scammed.

Future Outlook

The rise in QR code scams is a clear indication of how technology can be manipulated for malicious purposes. As we move forward, it is essential for both authorities and individuals to stay informed and proactive in combating these fraudulent activities. Technology continues to evolve, and so do the tactics employed by scammers. Vigilance and awareness remain our best defenses.

For those needing to create legitimate QR codes, using a reliable QR code generator is advisable, ensuring that any codes used in official capacities are authentic and trustworthy.

By staying informed and cautious, we can protect ourselves and contribute to a safer environment for everyone. Let’s work together to stamp out scams and uphold the integrity of digital transactions.