Have you ever scanned a QR code to pay for parking and thought, “Wow, that was easy?”
Well, hold your smartphone Because we’re going to tell you about a secret new scam that’s giving parkers everywhere a big headache.
You may think you’re pretty sharp when it comes to spotting online tricks, but these fraudsters are seriously upping their game with QR codes.
Get security alerts, expert tips – sign up for Kurt’s newsletter – Cyber Report here
Illustration of fraudulent QR code and website (Redondo Beach Police)
QR Code: From Convenience to Benefits
Remember when QR codes were just those funky square patterns you used to see on product packaging? Well, they’ve come a long way, baby. These days, they’re everywhere — from restaurant menus to, you guessed it, parking meters. But while they have made our lives easier, they have also opened up a new avenue for scammers to exploit.
Small size, big clean: the world’s smallest dishwasher
fraudulent qr code (Redondo Beach Police)
Don’t fall victim to this election season’s most clever scams
scam in action
Think about this. heading to your beautiful beaches Redondo, CaliforniaYou find a location, walk up to the meter and see a QR code for easy payment. Convenient, right? not so fast. In a brazen move, scammers pasted fake QR codes on around 150 parking meters in the Esplanade and Riviera Village area. These fake codes were strategically placed right next to the legitimate ParkMobile and PayByPhone labels. Talk about hiding in plain sight.
Dangerous new malware may be hidden in illegal movie downloads
Visit the coast of San Clemente, and you’ll find a similar story. An oblivious driver became its victim digital fraudHe scanned what he thought was a legitimate code, but found himself on a fraudulent website. Within minutes, his wife’s credit card company was calling about unauthorized charges. Talk about a parking nightmare.
This scam is not limited to California. Law enforcement agencies across the country are reporting similar scams, now called “quishing” (QR code phishing). These scams typically target high-traffic areas and aim to collect personal and financial information from unsuspecting victims.
Warning: 106 million Americans affected by massive data leak, blow to background check firm
Images of ParkMobile and PayByPhone apps (Redondo Beach Police)
How to avoid becoming a victim of a moving scam
How does the scam work?
These scammers are using QR code technology To overcome their tricks. Here’s his playbook:
Fake sticker: Scammers create QR code stickers that look exactly like the real deal.
Lookalike URL: Crooks set up websites with names similar to legitimate parking payment sites. For example, PoyByPhone instead of PayByPhone. spot the difference? It is not easy.
Data Grab: Once you’re on the scammer’s site, they ask you for your location and payment information, just like a real parking app.
Quick Escape: Once they have your data in hand, thieves start racking up unauthorized charges faster than you can say “parking ticket.”
Park and Pay Station (Curt “Cyberguy” Knutson)
Protect yourself from tech support scams
how to protect yourself
1. Check the URL: Before entering any information, check the web address carefully for any irregularities or misspellings.
2. Use Official Apps: Whenever possible, use the official city parking app instead of scanning QR codes.
3. Inspect for tampering: Be wary of QR codes that seem like an afterthought or look like they were added on top of existing signage.
4. Consider Alternative Payment Methods: Sometimes, using coins or credit cards directly at the meter is the safest option.
5. Keep your device updated: regularly Update your phone’s operating system And security software to protect against the latest threats.
6. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Payment: public wi-fi Networks are often insecure, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. When paying for parking, use your cellular data connection instead. Remember, it’s better to use a little more mobile data than risk your financial information falling into the wrong hands. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a VPN to encrypt your connection and keep your data safe from potential hackers. For the best VPN software, check out my expert review of the best VPNs to browse the web privately Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
7. Beware of unwanted messages: Ignore links sent via email, text or social media claiming to pay for parking. Instead, enter the official parking website manually or use the city’s app.
8. Use safe scanning methods: Your smartphone’s built-in camera is usually enough to scan the QR code. Avoid downloading third-party QR code scanning apps, which may potentially contain malware.
9. Verify Payment Request: If you receive a QR code for payment via email, do not rush to make the payment. Contact the company directly through their official channels to confirm the request.
10. Don’t click on suspicious links: Be wary of clicking on any links you see in emails, texts or social media messages regarding parking payments. Scammers often use these methods to direct you to fake websites that may appear legitimate but are designed to steal your personal and financial information.
The best way to protect yourself from malicious links that install malware that potentially access your private information is to install strong antivirus software on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the Best 2024 Antivirus Security winners for your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices,
360-degree throwable tactical cameras are changing the game for military and law enforcement
What to do if you have been scammed?
If you think you’ve been a victim of QR code fraud, don’t panic. Here is your action plan:
Contact your bank: Call your credit card company or bank immediately to report the fraud and freeze your accounts.
Enter report: Contact your local police department.
Alert the FTC: File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/complaint.
Monitor your credit: Keep a close eye on your credit report for any suspicious activity.
The hidden cost of free apps: your personal information
Kurt’s highlights
Remember, scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, but the good guys are doing the same. By staying informed and using a healthy dose of skepticism, you can enjoy the convenience of digital payments without falling victim to these parking predators. So, the next time you’re out and looking for a parking spot, keep these tips in mind, and don’t let scammers take you away.
In your opinion, how can cities better protect their residents and visitors from these types of scams? Let us know by writing here cyberguy.com/contact
For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report newsletter cyberguy.com/newsletter
Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover
Follow Kurt on his social channels
Answers to the most frequently asked CyberGuy questions:
New from Kurt:
Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
