Abu Dhabi Police Warn Of Fake QR Codes That Can Lead To Hacking, Financial Fraud

A public warning has been issued by Abu Dhabi Police on Wednesday about the spread of fake QR code stickers placed in public locations. The authority cautioned that these codes may be used in cyber-fraud schemes to steal banking and personal information.

Scammers have been placing fake QR stickers that looked similar to the official payment codes on payment devices, parking metres, dashboards, and other visible surfaces, the police said. However, when scanned, these counterfeit codes redirect users to fake websites that prompt them to enter card details or personal data, exposing victims to hacking and financial fraud.

Authorities alerted people and stressed that payments should be made only through official, authorised applications or trusted government platforms. Residents have been urged not to scan QR codes if the source is unclear or if the code is not displayed as part of an official sign or panel.

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Similar warnings have also been issued in Dubai and reported by Khaleej Times, after a video circulating online showed fake QR codes pasted over parking operator Parkin's posters.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Parkin have cautioned motorists and residents against scanning unauthorised QR codes on parking meters or payment machines.

Both entities stressed that official QR codes are clearly marked and linked only to approved payment platforms, urging users to remain vigilant and report any suspicious stickers found on public infrastructure.

What are parking QR codes?

All parking signages across Dubai have QR codes for easy payment of parking fees. Motorists save 30 fils when they opt for mobile or mParking service, instead of sending an SMS.

It is easy to use - just scan the QR code and an 'App Clips' feature will pop up. The App Clips is not an application that users must download on their smartphones, but a feature in the Parkin App. It pops up once the QR code is scanned, and enables the user to smoothly pay the parking fee through the bank card stored in their mobile device.

Authorities in the UAE stressed that public awareness is crucial and prompt reporting are key to preventing cybercrime and protecting individuals from financial loss.

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