With the launch of the off-street parking payment scheme in South Gloucestershire, motorists are being warned to be careful of scams linked to fraudulent QR codes being placed on parking payment machines and signage that has been installed in some car parks in the district.
South Gloucestershire Council’s parking scheme does not use QR codes. Payment can be made safely and securely by using the MiPermit app, MiPermit website or via the automated payment line on 0345 520 7007.
Unfortunately, it is a well-known scam that fraudsters use to direct members of the public to often cloned websites which request credit or payment card details and other personal data. Car park operators across the country have seen these attempts made by criminals to obtain money and personal information.
A small number of suspect stickers have already been found on the new machines and signs that have been installed in the 22 car parks where charging has been introduced. These have been removed by council officers and the team will continue to be vigilant in looking for and removing them if they appear as they visit the districts car parks, in order to protect the public.
People using the car parks are being asked to remember to only use the approved payment methods and to never scan a QR code if they see one in a council car park.
South Gloucestershire Council Cabinet Member for Communities and Local Place, Councillor Sean Rhodes, said: “South Gloucestershire Council do not use QR codes as part of the car parking system. We know it is all too easy to fall victim of scams, and fraudsters are increasingly sophisticated in their approach to tricking people into parting with money or their personal information. By being vigilant, residents can protect themselves and others.
“The simplest way to pay for your parking if you need to, is by using the app. If you set up an account and log your vehicle details, it’s even faster. For those who prefer to use the website, save the address so you know that you trust that site. If you prefer to pay by phone, save the number so, again, you can avoid mis-typing it and you know you’re contacting a trusted contact.
“Our staff will continue to be vigilant in looking for any evidence of tampering with our parking payment machines, including removing any stickers added near to payment instructions.”
There are a number of ways you can pay for your parking:
- by card or contactless at the machine in the car park
- download the MiPermit app
- visit the MiPermit website (https://secure.mipermit.com/southgloucestershire/application/home.aspx)
- call the MiPermit automated payment line 0345 520 7007.
