Scammers use fake parking notices with QR codes to steal banking data from drivers. Law enforcement warns against paying fines based on paper documents found on cars.
Scammers use fake notices on cars
Many local governments and gendarmerie services are warning the public about a common scam involving fake notices placed on car windshields. These notices look like official documents from the National Agency for Automated Processing of Violations, which handles traffic fines and other infractions.
Fake notices mimic official documents
The scam involves small printed butterflies that closely resemble the official information notices issued by the National Agency for Automated Processing of Violations. These counterfeit notices are designed to trick drivers into believing they have received a legitimate fine.
QR code leads to fake payment site
The fake notice includes a QR code that supposedly allows the driver to pay the fine. However, scanning the code redirects the user to a fraudulent website that mimics the look of an official public service platform. This site is designed to collect personal and banking information.
No official fine notice includes a QR code
Law enforcement authorities emphasize that no legitimate fine notice sent by the National Agency for Automated Processing of Violations includes a QR code for direct payment. All official notices are sent by mail to the registered owner of the vehicle or are available on the official website ampar.gouv.fr.
Avoid payment based on paper notices
In case of doubt, individuals are advised not to make any payments using a phone based on a paper notice found on their car. The official procedures for paying fines are always conducted through the mail or the official website.
