Parking Scams

Residents are urged to be on their guard against scam text messages claiming they owe money for the non-payment of a parking fine.

The text messages usually come from ‘the council' or an agency like the DVSA. They claim the recipient has not paid a Penalty Charge Notice for a parking incident but gives no other details.

It then asks the recipient to pay immediately by clicking on a payment link or they will pay a larger penalty, be banned from driving or taken to court.

Anyone who clicks on the link will either have their phone infected by a virus or enter personal information which can then be used by a scammer to steal money from them.

Stratford-on-Avon District Council wants everyone to be aware these messages are fake and designed to trick recipients into giving out personal information or bank details.

The District Council does not issue parking fine non-payment notices by text or call asking recipients to pay immediately. SDC will always send a letter to the registered keeper with the details of the car, contravention and time and date of the offence. The District Council will also offer sufficient time for the fine to be contested.

If you receive one of these text messages then please just ignore it and do not click on any links. Block the sender's number and report the incident to Action Fraud. Please stay vigilant and keep yourself and your personal information safe.

Scam text messages can be reported to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday