Fake QR codes are being stuck on parking machines in Chester to trick people into handing over their card details.

Motorists are being warned about the risks of paying for parking using QR codes, due to the increasing threat of scammers stealing private information and money.

'Quishing' is the growing criminal activity of placing fake QR codes on payment machines in car parks to defraud unsuspecting drivers by duping them into entering credit and debit card information into fake websites.

The scam often has a double blow for victims, who not only hand over their payment information to thieves but also risk fines from councils or private firms for failing to pay the parking fee . 

Cheshire West and Chester Council's cabinet member for homes, planning and safer communities, cllr Christine Warner, said: "Our parking team is currently checking all council-owned car parks, but so far only privately-owned car parks in the borough have been affected.

"The QR codes, which have been stuck to ticket machines, link mobile phones to a fraudulent website and dupe motorists into entering their credit and debit card information.

"Parking at a council-owned car park is paid for by cash or card at ticket machines in the car parks. 

"Alternatively pay by phone is available through APCOA, AppyParking, JustPark, PayByPhone and RingGo.

"The Council does not use QR codes for parking payments."

The Council is urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant and be aware of such scams.

Some motoring and financial organisations are advising motorists to never use QR codes and only to pay by cash, card or official app.