NYC DOT Issues Parking Meter Scam Advisory

New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez issued a consumer alert to notify New Yorkers about a parking meter scam targeting users of ParkNYC meters. At least one fraudulent sticker with a QR code was illegally placed on the side of a meter to direct users to a third-party webpage asking for credit card information. This QR codes is fraudulent, and users should not scan or share payment information through the link. The only way to pay for metered parking in New York City is through the official ParkNYC app or on a physical ParkNYC parking meter. 

NYC DOT has taken aggressive action to address this scam:

• ParkNYC users will receive an in-app notification about this scam and proper payment methods for metered parking. NYC DOT has notified law enforcement.
• NYC DOT has begun a citywide inspection of all parking meters to remove any illegally placed messaging or markings.
• NYC DOT has set-up a method for New Yorkers to report QR codes they see on parking meters:
  • If you see a QR code sticker on a parking meter, please report it by contacting ParkNYC at 212-839-7100 or via email at parknyc@flowbirdapp.com
  • If you believe you were victimized by the scam, contact your bank or credit card company and notify law enforcement.  

“Consumers beware: scammers are targeting parking meters, and we want you to be vigilant. If you see a QR code on a parking meter, do not scan it and please report it,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “This is a scam to collect your payment information, and we are working with law enforcement to hold those responsible accountable.”

If you see a QR code on a parking meter:

• Tear it off and contact ParkNYC at 212-839-7100 or via email at parknyc@flowbirdapp.com

If you believe you are a victim of this scam:

• Notify your bank or credit card company to inform them of this fraudulent charge.
• Report this crime to law enforcement.
• Report the parking meter location to ParkNYC at 212-839-7100 or via email at parknyc@flowbirdapp.com