Scam Warning: Fake QR Codes Found on Parking Meters in Southern California

Scam Warning: Fake QR Codes Found on Parking Meters in Southern CaliforniaPhoto byGetty Images - stock photo

REDONDO BEACH, Calif. (Aug. 26, 2024) — Police in Southern California are warning residents and visitors to beware of a new scam involving fake QR codes found on parking meters in Redondo Beach. The fraudulent codes, placed on around 150 meters along the Esplanade and in the Riviera Village area, were discovered by the Redondo Beach Police Department (RBPD).

These fake QR codes direct users to a website called “poybyphone,” which imitates the city’s official parking payment vendors, ParkMobile and PayByPhone. Both companies are contracted by the city to facilitate parking payments via legitimate apps and websites. In contrast, the scam QR codes lead unsuspecting users to fraudulent websites, putting their payment information at risk.

RBPD has since inspected all parking meters in the city and removed the fraudulent codes. However, they caution the public to stay vigilant, particularly by checking URLs for spelling errors and using the official ParkMobile and PayByPhone apps, which can be downloaded directly from their websites or app stores.

Authorities advise that it is possible for people who made payments through the fraudulent site to have still received parking citations. Anyone who believes they have been defrauded is encouraged to report the incident to RBPD at 310-379-2477. Information on contesting parking citations is available on the City of Redondo Beach’s website.

“For official parking payments, visitors should continue to use the options available directly on the meters or through the city's authorized mobile payment app,” RBPD stated. They also encourage the public to report suspicious activity or provide tips regarding the individuals responsible for the scam by contacting RBPD at 310-379-2477 ext. 3652.

Why This Matters:
As the popularity of mobile payment methods increases, so do opportunities for scammers to exploit unsuspecting users. Fake QR codes pose a serious risk to personal and financial information, making it crucial for the public to verify the authenticity of payment systems. This incident highlights the need for caution when making digital transactions, especially in public spaces.

Further Clarification Needed:

1. How long were the fake QR codes in place, and how many people may have been affected