However, online phishing scams have become the new normal. Scammers are now targeting new victims both online and offline without their knowledge. A new scam is that these criminals are targeting people via text messages and fake parking tickets.
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parking ticket (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
fake text parking ticket
In some cities, scammers have begun sending text messages to victims informing them that parking tickets that carry a small fee will result in additional fines if they don't pay them immediately. Between low costs and the urgency to avoid fees, victims often follow links to unofficial websites where their money and personal information are stolen. Before you judge victims of these “obvious” scams, these text messages look professional and may even include a QR code along with a city or parking authority logo.
Parking ticket on car windshield (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Beware of the new sneaky parking QR code scam
forged physical parking ticket
Scammers use receipts that resemble traditional parking tickets and leave them on victims' windshields. These fake parking tickets often come with a QR code that, when scanned by the victim, redirects them to a fake website where their money and personal information are stolen.
mobile phone QR code (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
The hidden cost of free apps: personal information
How to avoid being fooled by fake parking tickets
Unfortunately, scammers have infiltrated every aspect of life, both online and offline, so it's important to always remain vigilant when encountering a situation where information or financial transactions are required. And while time is of the essence when dealing with parking tickets that can result in multiple charges, it is equally important to slow down and assess the situation at hand. Some of the main ways to ensure safety include:
1) Confirm your payment request. If you receive an email or text with a QR code on your windshield to pay for your parking ticket, don't rush to pay. Instead of paying for your ticket by scanning a text message or QR code, sit down at your laptop or desktop and visit the official Parking Authority website. In most cities, you have the option of paying in person or through the official website. To search for a ticket, we typically require the quoted ticket number and license plate information. If you don't see anything, it may be a counterfeit ticket.
2) Verify your contact information. Instead of relying on text left on your windshield or contact information on your receipt, search online for the parking authority's official contact information. You may end up talking to a scammer instead of a city representative.
3) Pay attention to the QR code. Most cities do not implement QR codes in their ticketing systems, so the use of QR codes on text or paper tickets is a red flag.
4) Check the ticket format. Depending on the city, most parking passes are printed on both sides or in an envelope. It usually includes detailed information explaining the contest and how to pay for the ticket.
5) Keep your device updated. regularly Update your phone's operating system Security software that protects you from the latest threats.
6) Be wary of unsolicited messages. Ignore any links sent via email or text that purport to pay parking fines.
7) Don't click on suspicious links. Be careful when clicking on links that appear in emails or texts about paying parking fines. Scammers often use these methods to redirect users to fake websites that appear legitimate but are designed to steal personal and financial information.
The best way to protect yourself from malicious links that can install malware and access your personal information is to install strong antivirus software on all your devices. This protection also warns you about phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best antivirus protection products of 2024 for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
What to do if you get scammed
If you think you've fallen victim to a QR code scam, don't panic. Your plan of action is:
Please contact your bank: Call your credit card company or bank immediately to report the fraud and freeze your account.
Submit your report. Please contact your local police station.
Alert the FTC: File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. ftc.gov/complaints/.
Monitor your credit: Keep a close eye on your credit report for suspicious activity.
Don't fall for this email scam that cost an elderly woman nearly $25,000
Illustration of a scammer (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Cart important points
Scammers are becoming increasingly clever at finding new ways to trick you and steal your hard-earned money and personal information. Be more alert than ever about everyday life situations that require you to engage in urgent calls to action (clicking a link, scanning a code, calling a number to fix an issue, etc.) both online and offline It is important to continue. problem). Unfortunately, the best course of action in this day and age is to pause, review, and validate before taking action, even if it feels like you only have to pay a small fee to solve a simple problem. It is to do. Even if your financial information is not collected, these scammers can use the pieces of personal information they collect about you to create some level of confusion. Stop and think before responding to reaction requests both online and offline.
Have you ever received a fake parking ticket, either by text or physically? If so, what's the proof that it's fake? Email us at. Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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