UK vehicle owners should remain vigilant as scammers are circulating urgent text messages targeting smartphones. The fraudulent messages exploit concerns about parking fines, posing a significant threat that has caught the attention of Mirror Online. The scam starts with a text claiming an unpaid Parking Charge Notice (PCN) and warns of escalating consequences if not settled promptly.

The message reads, “Parking Charge Notice (PCN): The record indicates outstanding parking fines that must be paid by August 26, 2025. Failure to pay on time may result in additional penalties and interest charges.” It includes a link that recipients are strongly advised against clicking, a caution echoed by various local councils witnessing a surge in such scams recently.

Trafford Council and Royal Borough of Greenwich have both issued warnings urging recipients not to click the link or make any payments if they receive a text alleging a PCN. Clicking the link leads to a website resembling the official GOV.UK site, where individuals are prompted to enter their local council’s postcode and their vehicle’s registration details.

Upon entering false information, users are instructed to pay a £20 fine, with a “Pay Now” button prominently displayed. Those deceived are then prompted to provide personal information, including their address, name, and banking details, enabling scammers to access and misuse their financial accounts.

To safeguard against falling victim to such scams, individuals are advised to exercise caution and avoid clicking on links from suspicious messages. The GOV.UK site emphasizes the importance of not disclosing private information, responding to messages, downloading attachments, or clicking on unfamiliar links.

As scammers persist in deploying various tactics to obtain sensitive data, vigilance remains crucial in protecting oneself from potential fraud.