A parking-meter QR code opens a payment site: verify it first

A QR code on a parking meter can be replaced with a scammer's sticker. The scan itself may only reveal a link, but entering a card or account password on the wrong site can turn a parking payment into fraud. The physical location of the sticker does not authenticate its destination.

Before you start​

Before scanning, look for an official pay-by-app name, printed meter number and any alternative payment instructions on the machine or venue sign.

Do it step by step​

1. Inspect the code area for a sticker placed over an older code, peeling edges or inconsistent printing. Do not rely solely on this: a neat sticker can still be malicious.
2. Use the phone's QR preview without opening it and inspect the full domain. Compare it with the parking operator's address obtained from a separate official sign or its known app.
3. If the destination differs or asks for an unrelated password, close it. Pay using the meter's card reader, official app or a verified operator website typed manually.
4. Keep the receipt and check that the zone and vehicle plate are correct. A payment to a fake site may not prevent a parking ticket.
5. If you already entered card details, contact your card issuer through its official number, monitor transactions and replace exposed passwords. Photograph the suspect code and report it to the operator and relevant fraud authority.

Check the result​

A real payment should produce a confirmation from the official parking system, with the correct location and time. Verify it in the operator's app where available.

If something goes wrong​

A short URL or URL shortener hides the destination; do not expand your trust just because the page has a lock icon. If staff cannot confirm the QR code, use another payment route.

Know the limit​

This is a form of QR phishing, not proof that QR codes themselves are unsafe. FTC reports QR stickers covering genuine parking codes and recommends checking the preview and transactions. FTC's parking QR warning