Warning after fake QR codes appear in car parks

Warnings of fake QR codes on parking machines have been issued by Warwickshire County Council.

They are being used to direct drivers to bogus sites, which can then see people fall prey to scams.

Contactless payment hotspots - like parking meters and restaurant menus - are common targets of criminals who stick their own QR codes on signage, the BBC has previously reported.

The council said fake QR codes were spotted in Leamington Spa last week and have also been seen in Warwick.

A council statement posted on social media said: "It has come to our attention that some of the pay and display machines in the Warwick area have had stickers attached directing drivers to bogus sites.

"We would caution motorists from scanning any QR codes or bar codes that may appear on our pay and display machines.

"Any QR or barcodes affixed onto our machines have not derived from Warwickshire County Council."

Machines operated by the council take cash and use the RingGo parking app, the statement said.

People who scan the fake QR codes using mobile phones and other electronic devices are directed to websites controlled by the scammers, and can be tricked into handing over data such as bank details.

Experts, including the National Crime Agency and the National Cyber Security Centre, have said it is vital that people "stay vigilant".

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