Scammers using fake QR codes on parking meters across Aberdeen

Aberdeen residents are being warned about fake QR codes appearing on parking ticket machines across the city.

People have reported that the codes link to a fraudulent payment page designed to look like the website of operator PayByPhone when scanned.

Aberdeen City Council confirmed that it does not have any QR codes on any of it’s payment machines.

The council added that the matter has been reported to the police and are urging the public to report these scams to the local authority or PayByPhone.

City wardens have also been tasked with inspecting machines as part of their patrols and ensuring prompt removal of any QR code identified.

A Council spokesperson said: “Aberdeen City Council does not have QR codes on any of its machines or signs across the city.

“While the matter has not been reported to the Council, we are aware of scams involving fake QR codes on parking meters and signage and the matter has been reported to the police.

“Recent scams have seen fake QR codes places on parking signage and meters that once scanned takes the user to fraudulent websites.

“The Council has recently posted alerts on social media relating to the above issue and will do so again in order to remind the public that we do not have QR codes on any of our machines or signage.

“Our City Wardens are inspecting machines as part of their patrols and ensuring prompt removal of any QR code identified.

“The public can report sightings of scam QR codes to the Council or PayByphone.”

Police Scotland has been contacted for comment.