Before You Scan That Parking QR Code, Take a Closer Look

Key Takeaways

• Scammers are placing fraudulent QR codes over legitimate codes at parking locations.
• A fake QR code can direct you to a website designed to steal payment or personal information.
• Preview and inspect a web address before opening it.
• When possible, use a parking provider’s official app or website instead.

Main Article

Paying for parking by scanning a QR code has become routine in many cities, garages and lots. But scammers are taking advantage of that convenience by placing their own QR-code stickers over legitimate ones on parking meters and payment signs.

Scan a fraudulent code and you may be directed to a website that closely resembles a real parking-payment page. Enter your credit card details, password or other information and you could be giving it directly to a scammer. Because the code is attached to an actual parking meter or sign, the request may not immediately seem suspicious.

Before opening a QR-code link, preview the web address when your phone gives you the option and look carefully for misspellings, extra characters or unfamiliar domains. If a sticker looks as though it has been placed over another code, don’t scan it. Instead, look for the parking provider’s official website or app and access it independently.

If you realize you’ve entered information on a suspicious site, change any affected passwords immediately and review your financial accounts for unfamiliar transactions. Small conveniences can sometimes create opportunities for fraud, so give any QR code requesting payment information a second look before you scan.