The Better Business Bureau warns of parking ticket scams

Jacksonville, Fla. – It’s annoying! You get out to your car and find a parking ticket on the windshield. But before you pay that fine, make sure the ticket is valid.

There are several parking ticket scams designed to get your personal information.

Here’s how it works and how to spot a fake parking ticket.

The Better Business Bureau is warning drivers after a series of reports of fake parking tickets. Fraudsters use handheld printers to make a fake ticket and leave it on your car windshield. The BBB says some fraudsters can even use QR codes to get wider access.

If you follow the instructions, you will be able to pay the fine you owe correctly and provide your personal information.

Before visiting a new location, the Better Business Bureau recommends researching available parking and parking requirements. If you find a quote – look at it carefully. Fraudsters can copy logos and city office names.

Do an Internet search of the city’s official parking ticket websites and compare what you find.

Next, double-check who the ticket is payable to. Checks should be made out to a specific organization, not strings of initials or personal names.

Another way to protect yourself is to pay by credit card. That makes it easier to challenge fraud charges.