Motorists warned to watch out for ticketing machine scam

On some of the city’s ticketing machines QR codes have appeared and the parking company RingGo has advised against scanning with a smartphone.

This is some kind of scam as the company has confirmed it does not use these codes. Drivers are advised only to use the official website or the RingGo app.

Transport and Environment Convener, Cllr Scott Arthur said: “We’ve been made aware of a number of fraudulent QR codes which have been posted on our parking ticket machines recently. Our provider RingGo will never ask you to scan a QR code to help you pay for parking. There’s further information on staying safe on their website.

“Our parking attendants are removing these as soon as possible but in the meantime I’d ask residents and visitors to remain vigilant. We’ve also raised this matter with Police Scotland.”

We've been made aware of malicious QR codes being put on some of our parking ticket machines. Please do not scan these.

Our provider @RingGo_parking has advice on their website to stay safe and avoid scams: https://t.co/cyUX4M9sVZ pic.twitter.com/6LRZYroiYY

— The City of Edinburgh Council (@Edinburgh_CC) August 19, 2024

https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

On the RingGo website this is the advice offered:

Tips to protect you from QR code scams

QR codes are a common tool for scams and fraud 

Recent scams have involved false QR codes on pay-and-display machines and street signage. Stay safe by following this advice:

1. Download the RingGo app directly from the App Store or Google Play
2. Never scan a QR code if you are paying to park with the RingGo app
3. Do not share bank or payment details via links accessed through QR codes
4. Avoid scanning QR codes from emails, SMS messages or unknown sources
5. Report any suspicious QR codes to the council or private car park provider operating in the area 
6. Be careful when registering card details outside of the RingGo app
7. Do not pay anyone who approaches you in a car park