A “Parking Charge Notice” (PCN) scam is a type of fraud where scammers, pretending to be from a legitimate parking authority or company, attempt to trick you into paying a fake fine.
This scam has become increasingly sophisticated, using methods like text messages, QR codes, and even physical fake tickets.
What’s Actually Happening
1. QR Code Scams (“Quishing”)
Fraudsters place fake QR-code stickers over legitimate parking payment codes or signs. When you scan them, you’re taken to a bogus website that looks official and prompts for your car and payment details. Victims have reported substantial unexpected charges—one even lost £13,000 after scammers spoofed a bank follow-up call.
2. Fake Parking Tickets on Windshields
In places like Dún Laoghaire, Ireland, scammers are leaving phony parking tickets on cars complete with QR codes. These codes lead to fraudulent payment sites, and the tickets lack the formal terms found on real ones.
3. Smishing: Fake Texts Claiming Parking Fines
Many councils and authorities report that text messages demanding payment for parking tickets are fake. UK councils—including Lambeth, Sheffield, and Lincolnshire—warn that they never issue PCN fines via SMS.
Texas authorities have issued similar warnings about ParkHouston scams where texts claiming unpaid parking fees are sent with dodgy links.
Also Read : Cravath Swaine & Moore LLP Email Scam
Real Reports & Community Eyes
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On Reddit, users warn that:
“You shouldn’t get parking tickets via text message… If it doesn’t come in the post, it doesn’t need your attention.”
“It looked like Bristol Council…but they only asked for registration, not PCN—a red flag.”
How to Stay Safe
Spot the Red Flags
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Unexpected texts about parking fines—even if they look official—are suspicious.
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QR codes on stickers obviously placed on meters or signs are increasingly being used in fraud.
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Generic greetings and vague language, like “Penalty Notice” without details, are telltale signs.
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Links that aren’t official URLs, especially those that don’t lead to council or known parking apps.
What to Do Instead
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Never click links in unsolicited texts or scan suspicious QR codes.
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Delete the message immediately, and forward it to 7726 (your mobile provider’s anti-spam number) if you’re in the UK.
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Check directly:
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For UK PCNs, go to your local council’s official website (example: Sheffield uses a Taranto portal).
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Report the scam:
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To Action Fraud (UK): actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040
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Also Read : Parking Fine Text Scam UK
Summary Table
| Scam Type | What It Looks Like | How to Protect Yourself |
|---|---|---|
| Fake QR Code on Meter | Sticker with QR over genuine code | Pay via meter or trusted app; ignore stickers |
| Fake Parking Ticket | Bogus ticket with QR code on windshield | Inspect for official terms; contact council |
| Fake PCN Text/Email | Unsolicited fine requests via text or email | Never click; check via official website/post |
Final Word
Yes, parking charge notice scams are real and growing. From fraudulent QR codes to phishing texts about PCNs, they prey on urgency and fear. But with a bit of caution—ignoring unknown links, verifying via official channels, and reporting scams—you can keep yourself and others safe.
