On Thursday, Fort Lauderdale authorities alerted residents and tourists about a parking payment scam that involves phony QR code stickers on certain city parking meters and “Pay by Phone” placards.
According to authorities, fake stickers are sending users to phony websites that try to steal their banking information, even though they can show the logo of a genuine mobile app.
Employees in Fort Lauderdale reported that during routine inspections, they discovered phony QR code stickers.
Instead of scanning any stickers, police are advising people to pay exclusively with certified parking meters or the approved payment app indicated on city signage.
What to Search for:
Don’t scan QR codes on stickers; only scan those that are prominently displayed on official city signage.
Only EV charging stations and the Arts & Science District Garage use the “ParkMobile” app, but the majority of parking lots use the “Pay By Phone” app.
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Tips for Safe Payments:
Use city parking meters: Don’t scan QR codes on stickers; instead, pay at the meter or using the official mobile app. GooglePay QR codes are not used in Fort Lauderdale.
Report Suspicious QR Codes: Use the FixItFTL app, visit fortlauderdale.gov/fixitftl, or phone 954-828-8000 to report any suspicious QR codes you come across to Fort Lauderdale authorities.
Should You Have Been Conned – Call the non-emergency line of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department at 954-764-4357 if you think you have been the victim of this scam.
