Using a QR code to park? Ensure it’s not a scam sticker

CHARLOTTE — QR Codes make parking fast and easy.

They may take you right to the website you want, or they may not.

Some scammers put their codes over the real ones.

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Action 9′s Jason Stoogenke explains how these scams work.

You scan the code. It takes you to a dummy site -- a phishing one -- where you hand over your personal information.

Watch out for other QR code scams, not just parking ones.

The Federal Trade Commission issued this warning, saying “some crafty scammers” might text or email you a code and make up a reason for you to scan it. For example, they “couldn’t deliver your package and you need to contact them to reschedule.”

And speaking of packages, some cons combine QR Codes with “brushing.” The company, QR Code Developer is warning consumers about this.

This is what could happen.

Scammers mail you a package you weren’t expecting. It has a QR Code. You scan it to figure out who sent it and, more importantly, if you paid for it. Play along and you may end up paying for it in more ways than one.

Stoogenke’s advice to avoid any QR Code scam:

Never scan a code if it’s on a sticker or looks like it has been replaced or covered up.
Never download an app from a QR Code. Always use your phone’s app store.
Always be careful before you share your personal information on any site.
If you’re at a parking lot and can pay by credit or debit card, you may want to.

Victim of ID theft? Call 888.400.5530 or go to www.idtheftcenter.org.

Channel 9 recently warned you about another parking scam, a text claiming to be from the City of Charlotte. It says you have unpaid parking tickets.

Real parking officials with Park It will only contact you in one of two ways: