Beware of fake parking fine text messages

The Jersey Consumer Council is urging Islanders to stay vigilant after reports of a new scam in which fraudsters are sending text messages claiming recipients have outstanding parking fines.

The scam, highlighted by the Government of Jersey's Infrastructure and Environment Department, involves text messages that appear to come from a company called "ParkingEye". The messages claim that an unpaid parking charge has been identified against your vehicle and encourage you to click on a link, enter your vehicle registration details and make an immediate payment.

The messages – which have been seen first-hand by Jersey Consumer Council employees – are designed to create a sense of urgency, making people worry that they could face further charges or penalties if they do not act quickly. However, the links are fraudulent and are intended to steal personal or financial information.

The Government has confirmed that parking fines in Jersey are not issued through text messages or any other digital payment request. If you receive one of these messages, do not click on the link, do not enter any personal or banking information, and delete the message after reporting it as spam.

If you receive a suspicious parking fine text:

• Don't click on any links.
• Don't provide your personal or payment details.
• Delete the message after reporting it as spam.
• If you're unsure whether a parking fine is genuine, contact the relevant organisation directly using official contact details rather than those provided in the message.

If you have already clicked the link or shared your financial information, contact your bank immediately and monitor your accounts for any unusual activity.

How to spot a scam

Scam messages often share common warning signs, including:

• Pressure to act immediately.
• Unexpected requests for payment.
• Links to unfamiliar websites.
• Requests for personal or financial information.
• Generic wording rather than using your name.

Even if a message looks convincing, it is always worth taking a moment to think before you click. Criminals frequently imitate trusted organisations and well-known brands to make their messages appear genuine.

Working together to tackle fraud

The Jersey Consumer Council is a proud member of the Jersey Fraud Prevention Forum, a partnership of organisations working together to help protect Islanders from fraud and financial crime.

The Forum shares intelligence about emerging scams, raises public awareness and encourages everyone to report suspicious activity so that others can be protected.

Unfortunately, scams continue to evolve, with criminals regularly changing the stories they use to target consumers. Whether it is fake parcel delivery messages, banking scams, investment fraud or parking charge texts, the advice remains the same: stop, think and verify before taking any action.

The Jersey Consumer Council encourages everyone to share scam warnings with friends and family, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to fraud. Raising awareness is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent criminals from succeeding.

For more information about common scams and how to protect yourself, visit the Jersey Fraud Prevention Forum's website.