Fake QR code scammers targeting Leeds city centre parking bays

Scammers are using fake QR codes in attempts to steal money from drivers using parking spaces in Leeds, the city council warned.

The thieves have pasted over a number of legitimate signs in the city centre with realistic-looking replicas that instruct people to scan a bogus code, which then asks for financial and personal details.

Leeds City Council said it would “never ask for payment via a QR code” and asked those who spot them to report it to police via 101.

West Yorkshire Police advised those who scanned the QR codes to contact Action Fraud.

One fake sticker around the Holmes Street area displayed a green sign with a QR code purporting to be from the legitimate PaybyPhone service.

PaybyPhone has been contacted for comment.