QR code scam warning.

  We have been informed by colleagues at North Yorkshire Council Parking Services that fraudulent QR codes have popped up in car parks along the coast between Staithes and Filey. 

Previous warnings were shared at the start of July when fake QR codes were found in North York Moors National Park car parks. Now parking wardens have been sighting codes printed as stickers and placed on the car park information boards. 

This type of fraudulent activity is known as "Quishing" - short for QR code phishing. This is technique used to gather financial information, personal data and money by tricking victims into downloading malware and visiting fraudulent websites. 

 How to stay safe. 

✅ Before scanning any QR codes, run your hand over the code. Most genuine codes are printed into the signs. A sticker gives a good indication that it has been added later, therefore it should be treated as suspicious. 

✅ Verify the address prior to visiting the website. The link is usually shown on the bottom of your screen. 

✅ Consider downloading an official app before you park, this reduces the opportunity to be sent to a fraudulent website. 

❌ Don 't provide personal information or passwords upon scanning a QR code. Legitimate services don't generally ask for this information. 

💰 If in doubt use coins or cards 🏧 

You can find more information about Phishing or make a report as a victim of fraud by visiting Report Fraud . 

UK's Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud - Report Fraud