You pull up to a parking spot in Atlanta, ready to pop into a store or grab lunch. But instead of dropping a few coins into the meter, there’s a shiny QR code staring back at you.

 

Scan to pay, it says. Easy, right?

 

Not always.

 

A new wave of scammers is targeting drivers in cities across the country — including Atlanta — by hijacking parking meters with fake QR codes. And for those who fall for it, the price is way higher than a few bucks for parking.

How the Scam Works: A Simple Sticker with Expensive Consequences

Here’s the set-up: Scammers print their own QR code stickers and place them directly over real parking meter instructions. When unsuspecting drivers scan the code, they’re taken to a site that looks legitimate — but is anything but.

 

Instead of paying the city or an authorized parking company, victims end up handing their credit card information straight to criminals.

This scam first made headlines in California, where hundreds of fake QR code decals were slapped onto public meters. Not only did victims lose their parking money, but scammers walked away with their banking details — opening the door to fraud, identity theft, and unauthorized charges.

 

And like most scams, it’s spreading. Fast.

 

Atlanta drivers should absolutely expect this scheme to show up here — if it hasn’t already.

Spotting a Fake QR Code Isn’t Always Easy

One of the most dangerous parts of this scam? It looks so ordinary.

 

Today’s parking meters often require app payments or QR code scans. Busy drivers in a hurry aren’t likely to question a digital payment prompt — especially when it blends right in with city signage.

 

But there are red flags:

 

Look closely at the web address (URL) that pops up when you scan.  In the California case, the scam URL was poi2park.com — designed to mimic a real parking site like pay2park.com. One small typo or odd word can mean the difference between legit and fake.

 

Check for cheap-looking stickers or decals awkwardly placed over official signage.  City-run meters usually have embedded instructions — not peeling stickers slapped on top.

 

Always look for the city’s official parking website or payment provider listed somewhere on the meter.

 

Smart Tips to Protect Yourself from Parking Scams

Fortunately, you don’t have to swear off QR codes forever. But a little caution can go a long way in protecting your wallet and your personal information.

 

Here’s what TrustDALE recommends:

  • Prefer credit cards over debit cards for parking payments. Credit cards offer far better fraud protection if your information is stolen.
  • Inspect QR codes carefully. Is it a sticker? Is it covering another sign? Does the web address look odd or unfamiliar?
  • Verify the site before entering payment details. Look for obvious typos, strange domains, or anything that feels off.
  • If in doubt, use an official app or meter. Many cities, including Atlanta, have dedicated parking apps available for download directly from their websites.

And if a parking meter doesn’t accept coins or cards directly — and QR code is the only option — take a few extra seconds to confirm its legitimacy. It could save you from months of fraud-related headaches.

What Should You Do If You’ve Been Scammed?

If you suspect you’ve paid through a fake parking QR code:

  1. Contact your bank or credit card company immediately to report fraud and freeze your card.
  2. Monitor your accounts closely for suspicious activity.
  3. File a report with the local police and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
  4. Warn others — scams like this thrive when people stay silent.

Parking should cost you loose change — not your life savings.

 

Want more tips on protecting yourself from scams like this? 

TrustDALE has built an entire platform dedicated to consumer protection and trustworthy business recommendations.

Visit TrustDALE.com for vetted local resources and more ways to stay scam-free.

 

Because the best way to beat a scam... is to see it coming.