The message warns the recipient that they have a payment deadline and that failure to pay will result in additional fines, interest, or even damage to the recipient’s credit history.
Row of parked cars in street in town centre(Image: Jane – stock.adobe.com)
A council in Wales has issued a warning to the public to remain alert following a spate of fraudulent text messages falsely alleging individuals have unpaid parking fines. These messages, reported by residents in Cardiff, are sent from an unrecognised number and are crafted to resemble official correspondence.
The text alerts the recipient to a payment deadline, threatening that non-payment could lead to additional fines, interest, or even harm to their credit history.
The message then directs the recipient to click on a link and input their vehicle registration number to “check and pay” the alleged fine.
Cardiff Council shared a screenshot of one such circulating message which reads: “Penalty Charge Notice: Records show that you have an unpaid parking ticket. The deadline is 12 July 2025 to pay your parking ticket. If you fail to pay your fine on time, you may be subject to additional fines and interest, and your credit history may be affected.”
Text messages circulating round Cardiff has prompted warnings from Cardiff Council(Image: Cardiff Council)
It continues, “After reading this information, please enter your vehicle’s registration number in the link (filling in the information is free) to check and pay your parking ticket. Please pay immediately before enforcement to avoid getting into further legal trouble, thanks again for your co-operation.”
The council has confirmed it is not behind these messages and has strongly advised the public against clicking on the link or divulging any personal or payment details.
A Cardiff Council representative stated: “We’re aware of a scam text messages being sent to people claiming they owe a parking find and urging them to click on a suspicious link to pay.”
The council further recommended that residents report any fraudulent messages by texting 7726.