BCP Council warning after fake QR code stuck on Avon Beach parking meter by scammers

SCAMMERS stuck a fake QR code on a Christchurch parking meter in an effort to fleece drivers.

BCP Council is warning motorists to be vigilant when paying for parking, with six car parks, including Avon Beach, targeted.

Explaining the scam, the authority’s director of commercial operations Amanda Barrie said: “Residents and visitors should be aware that scammers are currently targeting BCP by placing fake QR codes on some parking meters in our area.

“Once scanned, these QR codes may take you to a fraudulent website, where there may be a danger of money being taken from your account.

"The stickers are being placed on top of our genuine QR codes and this scam could be easily missed by anyone in a rush.

“Our officers are regularly checking car parks and inspecting individual machines to remove any fake QR codes that may appear.”

She encourages residents to download one of the three apps which can be used to pay for parking in the BCP area: PayByPhone, RingGo and JustPark.

Those worried about paying online can also use debit cards/contactless or cash at a parking meter.

The public can report sightings of scam QR codes to the council’s parking team on 01202 128900.

Neighbourhood police inspector Dan Cullen said: “Local officers are aware of these incidents and we will be working with the local authority to try and identify who is responsible.

“I would urge anyone who comes across one of these stickers, or who has any information that might assist our investigation, to please report it to police online at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101.”