The Balearic Port Authority has issued an urgent warning about a sophisticated payment scam targeting parking meter users at Palma's port. Fraudsters have placed counterfeit QR code stickers labelled 'Scan and Pay' on ORA parking machines, directing unsuspecting visitors to a fraudulent website designed to harvest banking information.
Port Police are actively removing these deceptive stickers from affected machines, while authorities have established a dedicated hotline (971,228,487) for citizens to report any suspicious QR codes they encounter. The Port Authority's spokesperson stated that "we're uncertain whether similar fraudulent stickers have been placed on the Palma City Council's ORA machines" and have notified SMAP to inspect their systems thoroughly.
ORA (Ordenanza Reguladora de Aparcamiento) is Palma's regulated parking system, implemented to manage vehicle parking in high-traffic areas. The system typically uses legitimate payment methods including coins, cards, and official mobile applications, making this QR code scam particularly concerning for authorities.
This incident highlights the growing trend of QR code-based fraud, known as 'QRishing', where criminals exploit the increasing popularity of contactless payments. Security experts recommend users always verify the authenticity of payment systems and avoid scanning unofficial QR codes attached to public infrastructure.
Palma's port, as one of the Balearic Islands' major maritime hubs, handles significant daily traffic, making its parking infrastructure a prime target for fraudsters. The authority's swift response demonstrates their commitment to protecting users from emerging cyber threats.