QR code phishingQR codeWebsite
Fake QR codes on parking meters
Last updated
Also known as: Parking QR code scam, Quishing at parking meters, Fake pay-to-park QR sticker
The Scam
According to the FTC, people have reported scammers covering up legitimate QR codes on parking meters with a QR code of their own. Scanning the fake code can take you to a fake payment site designed to steal your money, your personal information, or both.
The Targets
Drivers paying for parking by scanning a QR code on a meter or sign.
Red flags
- A QR code sticker placed over another code or that looks tampered with
- A QR preview link with spelling mistakes or switched letters
- A payment page that doesn't match the parking operator or city you expected
Your Move
- Check the link preview before opening it, and look for spelling mistakes or switched letters
- Keep your phone's operating system and apps updated, and use strong passwords with multi-factor authentication
- If you think you scanned a bad code, don't contact anyone through that site, change any password you entered (everywhere you reused it), and review your card and bank statements
- Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
More steps for any scam link: I clicked a scam link. What now?
Still circulating?
FTC September 3, 2026 alert based on reports of fake QR codes stuck over legitimate ones on parking meters.
Primary source: FTC Consumer Alert · 2026-09-03
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Educational summary only. Verify details on the source page. Report fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or ic3.gov.