Public warning: Scam QR code stickers found on parking machines

Dorset Council is alerting residents and visitors after a number of fraudulent QR code stickers were discovered on parking payment machines in the West Bay area.

These stickers contain QR codes that, when scanned, direct users to a fake website designed to look like a legitimate parking payment page. Instead of paying for parking, users are unknowingly handing over their credit or debit card details to criminals.

Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Services, said:

“We are very concerned about this scam and the risk it poses to the public. Dorset Council does not use QR codes for any parking payments. If you see a QR code on a parking machine, do not scan it. Please report it to our Parking Services team straight away so we can investigate and remove it.”

The Council stresses that all genuine parking payments in Dorset Council car parks can be made by cash, card, or through the official JustPark service, which is available via the official JustPark app, text message, or phone call. QR codes are not used for any part of the payment process.

If you believe you may have entered your payment details on one of these scam websites, contact your bank immediately and report the incident to Action Fraud or by calling 0300 123 2040.

To report suspicious QR codes or for any parking-related concerns, please contact Dorset Council’s Parking Services team.