City of Bakersfield warns public about fake QR code parking payment scams

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Bakersfield officials are warning residents about a parking scam involving fake QR codes.

According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), drivers encountering a QR code near a parking space should be cautious and not provide personal information.

Officials say there are no reports of a specific scam that has surfaced in Bakersfield.

The scam has been seen in other major cities and Bakersfield city officials want to ensure the public is aware of it.

In the parking scam, when you approach a parking meter, parking sign, or voucher machine, you might see a displayed QR code with a message such as ‘Pay for Parking Here’ or something similar, according to BBB.

City staff emphasize that Bakersfield does not use QR codes for parking payments.

Residents are urged to report any suspicious QR codes to BBB, which provides additional resources for avoiding such scams.

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