Parking meter scams

A parking meter scam has been reported across the borough.

How the scam works

The scam involves fraudsters distracting victims and stealing their bank cards by pretending that the parking machine has swallowed their card.

They then pretend to ring the number on the parking machines to report the card being swallowed. Another fraudster is on the phone and claims an operative will come out to investigate the issue in 30 – 45 minutes.

Meanwhile the criminals use the victim’s bank card to withdraw money.

Spotting fraud

It is impossible for parking machines to retain bank cards. Pay and Display machines are manufactured so that cards can only be inserted part of the way.

If anyone approaches you when you go to pay for parking, please be cautious and never insert your card into a parking machine when someone you do not know is present. Do not hand someone you don't know your card at any given time. 

If your card goes missing, you have been a victim of fraud and should immediately cancel your card.

Alternative payment methods

If you can, we advise registering to use the free RingGo service. 

This cashless parking system is a quick, easy to use mobile phone service that lets you pay for your parking with a credit or debit card. It means you do not have to use a Pay and Display machine.

Reporting fraud

If you suspect you have been a victim of fraud, please ring 101 or get in touch with the Metropolitan Police online. For emergencies, call 999.