Surge in PCN Text & QR Code Scams Hits Motorists

In recent months, scammers have been targeting UK motorists with fake Parking Charge Notice (PCN) messages. These messages, often sent by text or email, use phishing links or fraudulent QR codes to trick drivers into paying fake fines.

This technique, known as “quishing”, involves placing counterfeit QR stickers on payment machines or car park signs. When scanned, they lead drivers to fake websites that steal payment details and personal data.

How the Scam Works

• Fraudsters use fear and urgency to deceive drivers.
  Here’s what typically happens:

  1. You receive a message claiming you owe a PCN and must pay immediately to avoid penalties.

  2. The text includes a fake link or QR code to a fraudulent payment website.

  3. The fake site looks official, asking for your vehicle registration, name, and card details.

  4. Once entered, the data goes directly to criminals.

  These scams work because many drivers are now used to paying parking charges via apps or QR codes, which makes fake systems harder to spot.

Tip: If the message doesn’t include your vehicle registration or location — it’s almost certainly a scam.

Why This Matters to Motorists

• Falling for a fake PCN scam can have serious consequences:

  • You could lose money or expose sensitive payment information.

  • Clicking a fake link may download malware onto your device.

  • You might even miss paying a genuine PCN, resulting in further penalties.

  To learn how legitimate PCNs work and what they look like, visit our About PCNs page.

Why This Matters to Landowners & Site Operators

• These scams don’t just harm motorists — they damage trust in legitimate car parks.
  If your site has tampered machines or unclear signage, customers may avoid returning.

  That’s why landowners should partner with accredited providers like ANPRODATA.
  We ensure:

  • Secure, verified payment and appeal systems

  • Tamper-resistant signage and hardware

  • Routine inspections to identify fraudulent QR codes

  • Fast response protocols to remove fake materials

  To keep your site protected and trusted, explore Our Services for Landowners

How to Protect Yourself

• Never click on links in unsolicited messages.
• Real PCNs are issued by post, with full details — registration, location, date, and appeal process.
• Always check the website starts with https:// and the address looks legitimate.
• Forward suspicious texts to 7726 (the UK’s free scam-reporting number).
• Report any money loss to Action Fraud and your bank immediately.
• For QR payments, check for tampering before scanning. If unsure, pay through the official machine or app.

Key Takeaway

Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, but awareness is the best protection.
At ANPRODATA, we prioritise secure, transparent, and ethical parking enforcement.
Our systems use verified payment portals, clear signage, and robust compliance processes to protect both motorists and landowners.

At ANPRODATA

As a trusted IPC-accredited parking enforcement operator, ANPRODATA actively monitors new fraud trends and educates site users on prevention.

• Transparency: We never send PCN payment links by text message or social media.
• Security: All official payments go through encrypted third-party platforms, accessible only via our website.
• Partnership: We work closely with landowners to ensure signage, QR codes, and payment systems remain secure and compliant.
• Support: Motorists can always verify a notice or make an appeal safely via our official PCN portal.

Have questions about a PCN or your car park’s security?
Visit our Contact Us page or Partner With Us form to speak with our team.