Police warn of fake QR codes at Southern California parking meters

Updated: Sep 20, 2024 / 05:40 PM CDT

Authorities are warning the public after fake QR codes were discovered on parking meters across Redondo Beach.

Stickers with the fraudulent QR code were discovered on approximately 150 parking meters along the Esplanade and Riviera Village areas, according to Redondo Beach police.

City officials only work with two companies to collect parking fees — ParkMobile and PayByPhone. ParkMobile uses a QR code that directs users to the ParkMobile App.

PayByPhone can accept payments on their app or on their official website.

Official QR code stickers provided by the city of Redondo Beach on parking meters. (Redondo Beach Police Department)

The fake QR codes were much larger and placed directly underneath or next to the official city-approved stickers.

When scanning the fake stickers, users are taken to a website labeled “poybyphone.online” and prompted to input their their location and payment information. The official website is “paybyphone.com.”

The fraudulent QR codes were placed under or adjacent to the legitimate stickers. (Redondo Beach Police Department)

City officials said all fraudulent QR code stickers have since been removed.

“If anyone feels that they have been defrauded, please contact the Redondo Beach Police Department at your earliest convenience to file a report,” authorities said.

The public can call the Redondo Beach Police Department at 310-379-2477.