Scam QR codes found at seaside car parks

A council has warned drivers of scam QR code stickers that have been put on some of its parking meters.

Dorset Council said it found the fake digital codes in car parks across the West Bay area.

The codes can direct users to a fake website designed to look like a legitimate parking payment page.

The local authority has made clear to residents and visitors that QR codes are not used at any of its car parks.

It added payments at council car parks must be be made by cash, card or through the official JustPark service.

Councillor Jon Andrews, Dorset Council's cabinet member for place services, said: "We are very concerned about this scam and the risk it poses to the public.

"If you see a QR code on a parking machine, do not scan it. Please report it to our parking services team straight away so we can investigate and remove it."

If anyone believes they have entered their payment details on one of the scam websites they should report it to Action Fraud and alert Dorset Council's parking team.

You can follow BBC Dorset on Facebook, X, or Instagram.