Drivers are falling for a simple parking app scam and it’s costing them £100s – here’s what it is and how to avoid it

DRIVERS have been warned that a parking app scam is catching out thousands of motorists, costing them £100s.

The simple trick by scammers is easy to miss and has seen a dramatic rise since app-based parking has grown in popularity.

Experts are warning that these cashless parking scams are becoming more advanced in 'harvesting data and money.'

These days it's sometimes more difficult to find a machine that takes cash as app-based parking becomes the norm.

Motorists often have to scan a QR code as part of the process, taking them to a website to pay.

On the website they'll usually be asked for details such as their registration, car details and card numbers.

Scammers are producing their own QR codes on a sticker and sticking them over the top.

This takes motorists to a website that looks as though it could be owned by a legitimate parking firm.

However, putting in their details sends everything to the scammers and that's when people start seeing money leave their account.

Katherine Hart from Trading Standards said the scam was “very much on the increase”.

“It is another way to data harvest or phish for personal details and steal our money.

"This type of scam often targets the younger generation who are more likely to use their smartphones for payments.”

Drivers are being urged to check the QR codes by looking at the sticker to see if it's obviously been place over the top of another.

If they are still not sure, drivers should try lifting a corner of the sticker to have a look underneath and check.