After receiving a report about an Isle of Wight car park, we are looking at fake parking payment apps and warning of the dangers.

These often appear at the top of a web search and we are tricked into believing they are genuine.

The fake websites impersonate popular parking payment apps by using similar wording and branding.

The scam websites also claim to offer a 'free download' but the small print then commits the user to expensive monthly subscription fees.

Reporting a Scam

For advice on scams, call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline: 0808 250 5050.

To report a scam, call Action Fraud: 0300 123 2040

For more information on scams visit IWASP - Isle of Wight Against Scams Partnership (iow.gov.uk)

The signage in Island car parks gives specific instructions – please make sure you follow it correctly.

Download the App from the Apple Store or Google App Store or Visit paybyphone.co.uk

Call the automated phone service using the number on the sign.

Make sure the app has the authentic logo, which is nine green squares to the left of the name.

PayByPhone is always written as one word.

Remember the top website in a search isn’t always the one you need – be careful to check the logo and the actual web address.

The app provider will report these incidences to Google to investigate.

Unfortunately as with all scams as soon as one is removed another will spring up to take its place, so be vigilant!