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All UK Drivers Issued Urgent Parking Warning Amid Rise in Technology Scams
The council says the messages demand payment for fake fines and link to fraudulent sites that can steal personal and payment details.
- West Berkshire Council warned residents on Friday to ignore fake text messages claiming parking fines, which include links to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal and financial details.
- Local councils never issue parking fines via text, West Mercia Police cautioned; official Penalty Charge Notices are placed on vehicles or sent via Royal Mail. Scammers create urgency by claiming "Final Notice" status.
- Scammers deploy "quishing," placing fake QR code stickers over legitimate parking signage to redirect drivers to fraudulent websites mimicking genuine payment services. This method steals personal information and payment details.
- Maria Bryne, Cheshire West and Chester Council's director of environment and communities, urged residents to remain vigilant and never click links in unexpected text messages or enter banking details.
- Research shows 42% of drivers would scan a QR code without checking authenticity, while 19% reported already being scammed. These figures highlight widespread vulnerability as councils continue monitoring the threat.
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources26
Leaning Left0Leaning Right1Center19Last UpdatedBias Distribution95% Center
Bias Distribution
- 95% of the sources are Center
95% Center
C 95%
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