Drivers warned about QR code parking scam

The local authority reminded drivers that Portsmouth does not use QR codes

A city council has warned drivers to be "alert" to fraudulent QR codes appearing on parking meters.

Portsmouth City Council said it received reports of one on-street parking machine that may have had a fake QR code applied to it on Southsea Terrace.

The local authority said when the code was scanned it took the user to a fake website and could have led to stolen money and parking fines.

The council said its civil enforcement officers have removed any unauthorised notices, wherever they have been spotted, and it has alerted Hampshire police.

'Stay alert'

The council reminded drivers that Portsmouth does not use QR codes for parking.

The fraudulent codes lead to unofficial websites that mimic the parking application RingGo’s official site.

Councillor Peter Candlish, cabinet member for transport said: "We urge everyone to stay alert and only use official sources to prevent giving away their payment details.

"It’s crucial for people to use the official RingGo app to pay for parking in Portsmouth to avoid falling for scams like fake QR codes.”

Similar scam notices have been found in other areas of the country, but it is thought that this is the first time they have been spotted in Portsmouth.

People who find a fake code have been advised to report it to the National Cyber Security Centre.