Fake parking meter QR code scam
Scammers put their own QR code stickers on parking meters and pay stations. Scanning one opens a fake payment page that takes your card details instead of paying for parking.
How this scam works
The sticker looks official, and you are in a hurry. The page takes your card number and may charge it again later, while your parking is never paid.
Common versions of the message
- A QR code sticker on a meter or sign
- A warning about a ticket
- A page asking for your card
What the message looks like
Text from Sticker on parking meter
PAY FOR PARKING HERE. Scan this QR code to pay instantly and avoid a $75 ticket. Enter your card number on the next page: http://citypark-pay.top/meter
Fictional example based on common, publicly reported scam patterns.
The red flags
- 1
Sticker QR code: “Scan this QR code”
Scammers stick their own codes over real ones
A sticker placed over or next to the real sign is a warning sign. Look for tampering.
- 2
Scare tactic: “avoid a $75 ticket”
Fear of a ticket makes you skip checking
The ticket threat is there to make you pay fast.
- 3
Asks for your card: “Enter your card number”
The fake page takes your card details
Entering your card on a page you reached by QR code is how they get it.
- 4
Unknown site: “citypark-pay.top”
Use your city's official parking app instead
Use the city's official parking app or pay at the meter itself.
What to do
- Do not scan QR code stickers on meters or signs.
- Pay with your city's official parking app, downloaded from your app store, or at the meter.
- Report the sticker to the city parking office.
If you already replied, clicked, or paid
- If you entered card details, call the number on your card and ask for a new card.
- Check whether your parking was actually paid, so you do not get a ticket.
- Watch your statement for charges you do not recognize.
Got a message like this?
Paste it into TrustShield's free checker to see the warning signs in seconds. No sign-up needed to try it.