QR code scams rise as fraudulent parking apps target users

A rise in QR code-related scams has seen a 700% increase in reports over the last four years, according to data from Report Fraud. Criminals are increasingly exploiting these codes to steal money and personal data.

In a recent incident in Caernarfon, Wales, 61-year-old Les Howard fell victim to a fraudulent parking application. After scanning a QR code on a meter to pay for parking, Howard noticed unauthorized withdrawals from his bank account in increments of £60. Experts warn that scammers are finding new ways to exploit these codes, including hiding suspicious links in emails or tricking users into downloading fraudulent apps to access their financial information.