In an unsettling discovery, a sophisticated fraud scheme has just been uncovered involving parking meters across Monaco. Out of the 86 parking meters scattered throughout the city, 40 were found to be tampered with, as fraudsters used a deceptive trick to target unsuspecting drivers.
Here’s what happened: scammers cleverly affixed stickers displaying fraudulent QR codes on these meters. The idea was simple but effective. Drivers, eager to pay for their parking, were encouraged by these counterfeit stickers to scan the QR code, thinking it would streamline their payment process. Instead, they were unwittingly directed to malicious websites, handing over sensitive information to cybercriminals.
Swift Action from City Hall
This type of scam isn’t entirely new, having been seen in other cities before. However, it’s the first significant case in the Principality, prompting action from Monaco City Hall. All of the city’s parking meters have since been thoroughly inspected, and the fraudulent stickers have been removed.
Monaco City Hall is reminding everyone that the official ways to pay for parking remain unchanged: through the PayByPhone or Monapass apps, coins, contactless payment, or the traditional Carte Bleue. Importantly, none of Monaco’s 86 parking meters are equipped with QR codes for payment, making it clear that any such sticker should be an instant red flag.
The authorities are urging anyone who may have scanned one of these fraudulent codes to contact Monaco’s Public Safety Department immediately. City Hall has already confirmed that a formal complaint will be filed, signaling their determination to pursue the perpetrators behind this breach.
Monaco is acting swiftly to ensure the safety and trust of its residents and visitors. However, this incident serves as a reminder that even the most secure environments can be targeted, and caution is always warranted.
