A new scam is on the rise which could result in the loss of data and also your hard-earned money- it’s called the car park payment scam.
What is the car park payment scam?
This latest scam involves fraudsters targeting car park payment machines by placing a fake QR code disguised as a “quick pay option” on or nearby an authentic payment machine. The unsuspecting driver then scans the code and enters their personal information and payment details, which are received by the fraudsters rather than the approved parking service provider.
When checking their accounts later, victims of the scam find that money has been taken from their account, and their personal details have been compromised.
A similar scam cost one lady from Flintshire, Wales £230 earlier this year.
What can you do to avoid falling victim to this scam?
Of course, the easiest way to avoid falling victim to the car park payment scam is to pay cash where possible. Where it is not possible to pay cash, you should always ensure that you are certain that the company you are paying to is legitimate.
Katherine Hart of Trading Standards has issued the following advice: “This type of scam often targets the younger generation who are more likely to use their smartphones for payments”… “if in doubt, use the telephone number that should be displayed in a prominent place”.
You should always check your bank account for any suspicious activity and report any payments you don’t recognise. It’s also worth alerting trading standards and spreading the word amongst other drivers to raise awareness of car park payment scams operating in your area.
Author
Article written by Expert Motoring Lawyer and Managing Director of Ashworth Motoring Law, Alison Ashworth. Mrs Ashworth is one of the Countries leading specialist motoring law solicitors and provides commentary on the latest developments in the field of driving law. She represents drivers who appear before the Criminal Courts throughout the Country and is passionate in her belief that no driver should lose their driving licence in circumstances where a valid defence is available. Alison fights for her clients both in and out of Court, representing their interests in Government consultations and in national interest groups. If you would like Alison Ashworth to provide an expert opinion on any motoring law related issue, or to provide training at your organisation, please contact admin@ashworthmotoringlaw.co.uk.
Who we are
Ashworth Motoring law is a highly specialised criminal law firm which focuses solely on representing drivers who are at risk of losing their driving licence. Our in-house experts are all senior solicitors at the top of their field and represent motorists from all walks of life, from your local taxi driver to high profile individuals who feature heavily in the press.
Why we do what we do
At Ashworth motoring law we are dedicated to keeping drivers on the road. We believe that no driver’s licence should be placed in jeopardy due to a lack of legal or technical knowledge. That’s why we’re always striving to deliver relevant, current content to keep you up to date with issues that could affect your freedom to drive.
We know the devastating impact that a disqualification from driving could have on a person’s life, career and family. It’s from that understanding that we fight to save the driving licences of motorists throughout the Country, to ensure that no person is disqualified where a valid defence or judicial discretion is available.
If you have been accused of committing a motoring offence and would like to discuss your case in confidence with a specialist motoring law solicitor call 0330 33 22 770 or email admin@ashworthmotoringlaw.co.uk. Our expert solicitors will listen to the details of your case and let you know instantly if your licence could be saved.