June 27th 2024.
Recently, there has been an increase in scams targeting unsuspecting motorists. These scammers have found a new tactic - using fake QR codes. The goal is to trick people into giving away their bank details and draining their accounts. Unfortunately, one victim had to learn this the hard way, losing over £1,500 in the process.
These fake QR codes have been popping up on parking machines and tariff boards in Lytham St Annes, Lancs. Fylde Council was quick to take action and remove the fake stickers, but it seems like the scammers are persistent. More fake codes have since appeared, causing even more trouble for innocent drivers.
The council is urging anyone who may have used these QR codes to contact the police and their bank immediately. It is important to be cautious and take action as soon as possible to prevent any further fraudulent activity. The fake codes have been spotted at Dicconson Terrace car park, St Paul's Avenue, and Stanner Bank. Some drivers have reported that money was taken from their accounts after using these codes.
One woman shared her experience on Facebook, revealing that she had fallen victim to the scam at St Anne's beach car park. She thought she was paying for parking, but her bank account was drained of £1,500. It turns out that someone had attempted to add her card to their Google Pay account just five minutes after she had used the fake code. She is now working with the police, Action Fraud, and the company that the scammer had ordered things from with her card.
Another victim also shared their story, saying that they had fallen for the scam on a Saturday afternoon. Luckily, the bank was able to prevent a payment of £44 from going through. They realized that it was all a scam and the name on the bank statement was "BITSA."
Unfortunately, this scam has affected many people. Another victim shared that they had been scammed on a Monday and received an alert from their bank the following night. The situation has been resolved, but the scammers attempted to use their card for a purchase of £104 at Sainsburys.
A spokesperson from the council has confirmed that the stickers with fake QR codes have been placed on pay and display machines and tariff boards. They have been working to remove these fake codes, but more have been found at Dicconson Terrace car park, St Paul's Avenue, and Stanner Bank. The council is advising everyone to not scan any codes and to be vigilant in this situation. They are currently working to find a solution to this problem. If you have fallen victim to this scam, please reach out to our news team at email. It is important to spread awareness and take action to prevent any further fraudulent activity. Stay safe and be cautious, everyone.
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