A fake sticker on a real sign
Fake QR code on parking meter
Is a QR code on a parking meter or sign a scam?
It can be. Scammers stick fake codes over real ones to steal your card details. Do not scan; use the parking app or website you already trust.
Sometimes real, often faked. Do not use their link or number. Look it up yourself.
Also searched as: QR code on a parking meter, QR sticker, scan to pay
Draft: we're still checking this page. The quotes below are word for word from their sources.
What to do
On the phone right now?
- Stop. Hang up or close the message. Don't tap anything.
- Check. Call a number you already have, like the one on your card or bill.
- Talk to someone you trust before you pay anyone.
If anyone is in danger right now, call 911.
If you already paid
- Call the company you paid through right away: your bank, card company, gift card company, or the wire or Zelle service. Ask them to stop or reverse the payment.
- Call the Justice Department's National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311, Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern.
- Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If it happened online, report it at IC3.gov too.
General information, not legal or financial advice. If you've lost money, contact your bank and report it.
How it works
1 They reach you by
- In person
- Website
2 They pretend to be
- Someone else
3 They ask for
- Money
- Personal details
- Tap a link
What it can look like
Example pattern, not a real message
A fake sticker on a real sign. What gives it away:
- Give your ID numbers
- Use their link
- Pay right now
Warning signs
- They contacted you, then ask for your Social Security, Medicare or bank numbers.
- They want you to use their link or their phone number. Look up the real website or number yourself.
- They say you must pay right now or something bad will happen. Real organizations give you time to check.
Why we say this
See a QR code parked somewhere? Don’t scan it…yet!
Scammers stick fake QR codes over real ones on parking meters. Scanning one can take you to a fake site that steals your money or personal information.
People have reported scammers covering up legit QR codes on parking meters with a QR code of their own.
4 more quotes from this source
If you scan that scammy QR code, it could take you to a fake site designed to steal your money, your personal information, or both.
**Inspect the URL link**. Many QR readers preview the link they will send you to.
**Change your password:** If you entered credentials like your username or password, immediately change them wherever you use the same password for other accounts.
**Review your transactions:** Check your credit card and bank statements to spot transactions you didn’t make.