QR code scam warning

Good morning Resident,

We have been informed by our colleagues at North Yorkshire Council Parking services that fraudulent QR codes are being found in car parks along the coast between Staithes and Filey. 

Previous warnings were shared at the start of July with fake QR codes were found in North Yorkshire Moors National Park car parks. Now parking wardens have sighted codes printed on stickers that have been placed on the car park information boards. 

This type of fraudulent activity is known as “Quishing” – short for QR code phishing. This is a technique used to gather financial information and personal data as well as money by tricking people into downloading malwear and visiting fraudulent websites. 

How to stay safe.

>Before scanning any QR codes, run your hand over the code. Most genuine codes are printed into signs. A sticker gives a good indication that it has been added later. Treat these as suspicious. 

>Verify the address prior to visiting the website the link is usually shown on the bottom of the screen. 

>Consider downloading an official app before you park. The usual ones in the area include RingGo and PayByPhone 

DON’T PROVIDE PERSONAL INFORMATION OR PASSWORDS UPON SCANNING A QR CODE. Legitimate services don’t generally ask for information. 

If in doubt use coin or card as a means of paying. 

You can find out more information about Phishing or make reports if you find yourself a victim of fraud by visiting Report Fraud. 

UK's Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud - Report Fraud

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