Bridgend Council has issued a crucial warning to drivers amid reports of a parking scam targeting individuals over the recent Easter holidays. The council raised the alert after discovering counterfeit QR codes affixed to parking machines across Bridgend County Borough. These fake QR codes lead unsuspecting users to a website named PaybyPhonie.com, designed to mimic the legitimate PayByPhone platform, with the malicious intent of obtaining personal and financial details.
The scam has prompted the council to take to social media to inform residents and visitors, cautioning them about the fraudulent QR codes found on parking machines. Individuals are advised to be cautious and verify they are using authentic payment services such as PayByPhone or RingGo to ensure secure transactions. In the event of encountering any suspicious activity, people are urged to report it immediately to the council’s Fraud team.
Similar scams have emerged in various Welsh counties, including Monmouthshire, Swansea, Newport, and Denbighshire. Last month, Monmouthshire County Council also issued a warning, reassuring the public that their parking machines do not require QR code scanning for payments. In response to the fraudulent activities, council officials have been actively removing fake codes from parking facilities.
Victims of this scam often remain oblivious to the fraudulent activity until they observe unusual transactions in their accounts weeks later. One affected individual shared their experience online, stating that they were scammed and only realised when an amount was deducted from their account. The unfortunate incident highlights the importance of vigilance while using parking facilities and scrutinising payment methods before proceeding.
To safeguard against falling victim to such scams, drivers are advised to double-check the legitimacy of the payment method on parking machines and to refrain from scanning QR codes unless confident in their authenticity. Bridgend County Council reassures users that all its machines accept cash, card payments, or transactions via PayByPhone. Using dedicated parking apps or making payments directly at the machine are recommended practices for secure transactions.
If individuals believe they have been targeted by a parking payment scam, local council fraud teams should be alerted promptly to investigate the matter further. Prompt reporting can assist authorities in taking necessary actions to prevent further financial losses and enhance security measures at parking facilities. The fraudulent QR code scheme serves as a stark reminder for drivers to remain cautious and vigilant when using public services to safeguard their personal and financial information.
In conclusion, the warning from Bridgend County Borough Council underscores the importance of being alert to potential scams that can compromise individuals’ sensitive data. By staying informed, verifying payment methods, and promptly reporting any suspicious activities, drivers can contribute to combating fraudulent schemes and protecting their financial well-being. The collaborative effort between councils and the public is essential in ensuring safe and secure transactions at parking facilities.