Drivers in Wales have been put on high alert after reports emerged of fake QR codes being discovered on payment machines at a local car park. The concerning incident came to light when a customer visiting the Pontardawe Arts Centre noticed a suspicious QR code on a parking machine in Herbert Street, Pontardawe. The customer, being cautious, did not proceed with making a payment via the QR code and brought the matter to the attention of staff. Upon closer inspection, it was revealed that a fake QR code sticker had been deceitfully placed over an authentic council sticker on the machine.
The Neath Port Talbot Council’s trading standards department issued a statement acknowledging the discovery, stating that such scams have become increasingly common. They expressed gratitude to the vigilant customer who raised the alarm and cautioned all drivers using parking facilities in the region and beyond to remain vigilant. The fake QR code stickers linked to the incident have since been removed, and efforts are underway to identify those responsible for this deceptive act. Authorities highlighted that perpetrators of such scams often operate from overseas, complicating the process of tracking them down.
The Council advised the public that if they encounter any QR code at a car park that does not lead them to a site associated with Chipside or MiPermit, it is likely that the QR code has been compromised. In such instances, individuals are urged not to enter any card details and instead proceed to make payments at the designated pay and display machine. This precautionary measure aims to safeguard individuals from falling victim to fraudulent activities targeting unsuspecting drivers in parking areas.
WalesOnline recently launched a breaking news and top stories WhatsApp community to keep residents informed about significant developments in the region, including critical updates on incidents like the fake QR code scam. Members of the WalesOnline community will receive daily updates on the latest news, weather alerts, traffic updates, and more. The platform also provides an avenue for special offers, promotions, and advertisements from WalesOnline and its partners. Privacy concerns are addressed, and individuals have the freedom to exit the community at any time.
In response to the rise in fraudulent activities, authorities urge the public to remain cautious and report any suspicious incidents promptly. The discovery of fake QR codes on payment machines serves as a stark reminder of the importance of staying vigilant and taking necessary precautions to protect oneself from falling prey to scammers. As investigations continue to identify those responsible for the fraudulent QR codes, cooperation from the community in reporting such incidents remains vital in safeguarding against future scams in the region.