Brussels Capital/Ixelles police have issued a warning to residents and visitors about a growing scam involving fraudulent QR codes being placed over legitimate parking ticket machines.
These fake QR codes link to a fraudulent website designed to steal personal and banking information. Authorities have stressed the importance of vigilance when scanning QR codes and outlined measures to protect oneself from falling victim to this scam.
The fraudulent QR codes are being applied over the genuine codes drivers typically use to purchase parking tickets. Upon scanning, the unsuspecting individual is redirected to a deceptive website that prompts them to enter sensitive personal and financial details.
According to the police, these “ill-intentioned individuals” are exploiting the growing use of QR codes in daily life to target unsuspecting users.
Local peacekeepers and law enforcement are on high alert, actively searching for these altered codes throughout the city. The authorities are advising the public on several precautions to ensure they do not become victims of such fraudulent schemes.
One of the key recommendations is to always verify the URL of any website you are directed to after scanning a QR code.
Users should carefully check that the URL matches the official address associated with the parking payment system. If the website address seems unfamiliar or suspicious, it should be avoided at all costs.
In addition to checking the website URL, people are also cautioned against downloading apps from unknown or unreliable sources.
The police recommend using only official platforms such as the App Store or Google Play to download applications, as these are less likely to harbor malicious software.
If anything about a QR code or the website it leads to seems out of the ordinary, authorities advise against entering any personal or banking details. People should trust their instincts and err on the side of caution when in doubt.
For those who are concerned about the integrity of a QR code, the police recommend a physical inspection.
Users can run their hand over a QR code on a parking ticket machine or another device to feel for any irregularities, such as bumps or distortions. Altered codes may appear to have been tampered with or may show visible signs of damage, making them easier to detect.
If someone suspects they have fallen victim to this scam, the police urge them to contact their bank immediately to block any potentially compromised accounts.
In addition, CardStop, a service for halting stolen or lost bank cards, can be reached at 078/170.170. Victims are also advised to file a report with local police to ensure authorities can investigate the incident.
In cases where there is concern that the smartphone has been infected with spyware as a result of scanning a fraudulent QR code, users are encouraged to have their devices checked for any potential threats.
For anyone who encounters a suspicious QR code in the city, authorities encourage them to report it by sending an email to suspect@safeonweb.be.
By doing so, they can help the local police and peacekeepers stay ahead of scammers and protect others from falling prey to the same tactics.
As QR codes become increasingly commonplace in everyday transactions, Brussels police stress the importance of remaining cautious and informed.
With the rise of such scams, authorities are taking proactive steps to safeguard public safety and protect people’s personal and financial information.
