Understanding the PCN Parking Scam: How to Protect Yourself

PCN Parking Scam Overview

A new text message scam is on the rise, targeting unsuspecting individuals with fake parking fines. This scam begins with a text message claiming you have an unpaid parking ticket or penalty charge notice (PCN). The message usually includes a link, urging you to pay the fine online right away. Nevertheless, this link reroutes to a fraudulent government site aiming to extract your personal and financial data.

Thousands of people have already fallen victim to this parking ticket scam, resulting in identities being stolen and bank accounts being compromised. Typically, victims receive an unexpected text message about an unpaid parking fine. The message creates a sense of urgency, warning you that you must pay straightaway or face extra fees, legal prosecution, or even a court summons. This pressure makes it easy for victims to panic and comply without thinking.

The text message appears as this:

Parking Penalty Charge Notice: Please Pay a parking penalty charge notice (PCN) issued by a local council. If you do not pay a PCN within 28 days, you’ll get a ‘charge certificate’ and you’ll have 14 days to pay the original fine plus 50% more.

If you don’t pay you’ll be prosecuted – you may have to pay a bigger fine as well as court costs.

Please pay your fine at the link after reading the information.

[scam site link]

The scam plays on the fact that many local governments issue PCNs for real parking violations. At first glance, the message looks legitimate. However, clicking on the link sends you to a fake website, where your financial and personal information can be stolen.

How Did This Scam Start?

The parking text message scam likely started with smart cybercriminals looking for ways to steal identities and money. They use text messages to reach millions of potential victims easily, and the threat of legal action makes their scam more convincing. This scam reportedly began around late 2022 in the UK but has now spread globally. The fraudsters have discovered a simple but effective way to trick innocent people into giving away their personal and financial information.

Scope of the Problem

By mid-2023, the PCN text scam impacted tens of thousands in the UK, leading to losses of around £3 million to £5 million. The true extent of the issue is hard to measure because many victims don’t report their smaller losses. Despite this, government agencies have raised alarms about the increasing number of fake parking texts. If people don’t become more aware of these scams, many more could fall victim to this dangerous fraud.

Who is Behind This Scam?

Experts think organized cybercriminal groups are responsible for the parking text scam. These groups usually operate from other countries, making it hard for the police to catch them. The scammers can buy access to big lists of phone numbers and use automated systems to send millions of messages quickly. They also need technical skills to create fake websites that look real. This scam makes a lot of money for the criminals, but victims suffer from lost money and stolen identities. It’s essential to raise awareness about these scams to protect yourself and others. Always be careful with unexpected messages, especially those asking for urgent payments or personal information.

Key Signs of the PCN Parking Scam

To protect yourself, be aware of these red flags:

• Unsolicited Contact: Be cautious of unexpected phone calls, emails, texts, or social media messages offering financial aid.
• High-Pressure Tactics: Watch out for anyone urging you to act quickly or risk losing the opportunity.
• Requests for Personal Information: Never share sensitive details like your Social Security number or bank account information to “confirm eligibility.”
• Untraceable Payment Requests: Be wary if asked to pay using gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
• Fake Company Names: Scammers often use realistic but fake names to appear credible.
• Limited-Time Offers: Claims that the offer is only available for a short time can be a tactic to rush you.
• Unusually Large Promises: Be skeptical of promises for government subsidies much larger than existing assistance.

In summary, stay vigilant against predatory scams like the PCN Parking Scam. By learning to recognize the warning signs, you can better protect your identity, money, and health coverage. Always double-check any offers that seem too good to be true.

Spotting Scam Websites: Quick Tips

1. New Website Domain: Be wary if the website’s domain is recently registered. Scammers often set up shop quickly.
2. Picture Perfect Deception: If the product images seem too good to be true, they probably are. Scam sites often swipe photos from elsewhere.
3. Lonely Website: If the site doesn’t get many visitors, it’s a red flag. Legit sites usually attract more attention.
4. Crazy Discounts: Unrealistically low prices should raise alarms. Scammers use huge discounts to lure you in.
5. Social Media Ghosts: If the site is nearly invisible on social media, be cautious. Legitimate businesses usually engage with customers online.
6. Silent Customers: Lack of genuine customer feedback is suspicious. Real reviews help build trust; scammers avoid them.

Red Flags of PCN Parking Scam

PCN Parking Scam is waving some serious red flags that scream “scam alert”:

1. Spelling and Grammar Mishaps: If you spot lots of spelling and grammar errors on the website, it’s a big hint that the folks behind it might not be professionals.
2. Missing Company Details: The absence of any company info, address, contact details, or business registration is a glaring red flag. Legitimate businesses are transparent about who they are.
3. No Proof of Payouts: If there’s no evidence that anyone has actually been paid as promised, it’s a clear sign that those big earnings might just be a fairy tale.
4. Too-Good-To-Be-True Claims: If the promises sound unrealistically amazing – like earning big bucks for simple tasks – it’s probably a trap. If it seems too good to be true, it usually is.
5. Sketchy Redirects: If clicking on links takes you to sketchy, insecure third-party sites, it’s a major sign of phishing and scamming. Legit sites won’t play these redirection games.
6. Requests for Personal/Financial Info: Be wary if the site asks for sensitive data like social security numbers or bank account info. Legitimate platforms don’t need such confidential details.
7. High-Pressure Tactics: If the site creates false urgency, claiming you must act immediately to avoid missing out, it’s likely a tactic to pressure you into a scam.
8. Only Positive Reviews: If all the reviews seem overly positive and lack any criticism, it’s a warning sign. Legitimate platforms have a mix of feedback, good and bad.

Remember, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. Steer clear of sites that dangle quick cash as bait to grab your personal info – it’s a classic scam tactic.

Avoiding PCN Parking Scam

Stay one step ahead and avoid falling into the PCN Parking Scam trap with these simple tips:

• Stick to Reputable Platforms: Don’t venture into unfamiliar websites promising easy money. Stick to well-known and reputable platforms.
• Research Before Sharing: Before giving away personal info, research the website thoroughly. Look for reviews and complaints to ensure it’s legit.
• No Upfront Payments: Never pay money upfront for promised rewards. Legitimate opportunities won’t ask for payment in advance.
• Beware External Links: Avoid following links to external domains. Stay on the main site you’ve researched to steer clear of phishing traps.
• Spot Errors: Watch out for poor grammar and spelling. Amateurish mistakes can be a sign of scam artists at work.
• Verify Business Addresses: Use Google Maps to verify business addresses. Scams often use fake locations to deceive victims.
• Guard Sensitive Information: Only share sensitive info like SSNs or bank details when absolutely necessary. Legitimate sites won’t ask for these unless essential.
• Prepaid Cards for Online Shopping: Use prepaid cards when shopping online to limit exposure of your real payment cards.
• Ignore False Urgency: Don’t be rushed into decisions with claims of missing out. Scammers use false urgency to pressure victims.

Stay vigilant, take your time, and thoroughly vet any website before sharing personal or payment info. Your best defense is your own caution – protect yourself from these digital wolves in sheep’s clothing!

Things to do if fallen victim to the PCN Parking Scam:

If you have been deceived by the PCN Parking Scam, it is crucial to promptly safeguard yourself and your finances. Follow these steps to mitigate the impact of the scam and protect your assets:

1. Notify the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) about the scam by visiting their website at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/. Additionally, consider lodging a complaint with your state attorney general’s office or local consumer protection agency to ensure appropriate action is taken against the scammers.
2. File a report about the scam with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) through their website at https://www.ic3.gov/. The IC3 is a collaborative effort between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center, dedicated to collecting and assessing complaints related to online fraud.
3. Submit a report to Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok and mark the ads as misleading or deceptive.
4. Reach out to your bank or credit card company without delay and inform them about the fraudulent transaction. Request the cancellation of your card and the issuance of a new one. Explore the possibility of disputing the charge to secure a potential refund.
5. Immediately update your passwords and PINs for all your online accounts, particularly if you have used the same credentials on the fraudulent website. This ensures added security and minimizes the risk of unauthorized access.
6. Regularly keep an eye on your credit reports and bank statements to detect any signs of suspicious transactions or unauthorized charges.
7. If you have concerns about malware infecting your device, conduct a scan using the SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware software for potential threats.

Threat Summary

Name: PCN Parking Scam

Category: Scam

Features: Aims to deceive users into providing their personal and sensitive information like credit card details, address, phone number, and social security number.

Danger Level: Medium

Damage: Victims may have severe consequences, such as identity theft, fraud, and other malicious activities.

Symptoms: The unwanted application can cause several adverse effects, such as displaying intrusive pop-up ads and slowing down internet browsing. The threat can manipulate the settings of an internet browser. This manipulation forces users to visit the hijacker’s website and conduct internet searches using their search engine.

Distribution: Browser hijackers or adware such as PCN Parking Scam can spread through deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers that are bundled with malware, and fake Flash Player installers.

Removal: To remove the threat, scan your system with powerful SpyHunter anti-malware software

What is the purpose of PCN Parking Scam?

The purpose of adware or browser hijacker is to generate revenue through targeted advertising. It collects user data, such as browsing habits and preferences, to deliver personalized ads. By bombarding users with ads, the unwanted program aims to increase the chances of users clicking on them, leading to potential revenue for its developers.

While adware is primarily an annoyance and can compromise user privacy, it is often a means for companies to monetize free software and services without directly charging users. The primary objective of a browser hijacker is to promote certain websites, generate traffic, and potentially earn revenue through advertising or other means by exploiting the user’s browsing experience without their consent.

How does PUP end up on users’ devices?

Devices can fall victim to browser hijackers or adware through the download of infected files, malevolent email attachments, or visits to compromised websites. These hijacking tools may be bundled within browser extensions or included as part of software packages. Additionally, browser based threats can stem from shareware, freeware, or spyware infections, further expanding their potential sources of origin.

Potentially unwanted programs like PCN Parking Scam often find their way onto users’ devices unintentionally, as users can be deceived into unknowingly downloading them. This can occur when users agree to an extra download mentioned in the terms and conditions of software installation. Another tactic involves misleading users with a choice to decline the installation of the browser hijacker software, but the wording deliberately confuses them, resulting in the inadvertent download. Once installed, PUP initiates its malicious actions by manipulating the user’s browser activities through embedded malevolent code.

What are the impacts of PCN Parking Scam infection?

Browser hijacking refers to the unauthorized modification of web browser’s settings or behavior by malicious software or websites.  It can have various impacts on users and their browsing experience. Here are some common impacts of browser hijacking:

1. Altered homepage and search engine: Hijackers often change the default homepage and search engine settings of a browser to redirect users to a different website. This can disrupt the user’s browsing routine and make it challenging to find the desired information.
2. Unwanted browser extensions: Browser hijackers or adware may install malicious or unwanted browser extensions without the user’s consent. These extensions can inject ads, track browsing activities, or collect personal information, compromising primacy and security.
3. Increased exposure to ads: Hijacked browsers often display an excessive number of pop-up ads, banners ads, or in-text ads. This flood of advertisements not only annoys users but can also slow down browsing speed and consume bandwidth.
4. Tracking and data collection: Browser-based infections like PCN Parking Scam employ tracking mechanisms to monitor users’ online activities, including websites visited, search queries, and personal information entered on web forms. This information can be used for targeted advertising or sold to third-parties without the user’s consent.

What problems PCN Parking Scam can cause?

This undesirable application can cause instability in web browsers by modifying critical settings, introducing incompatible software, or consuming system resources. Users may experience frequent crashes, slow performance, or unresponsiveness while browsing. In more severe cases, browsing hijacking can lead to unauthorized access to online accounts. PUPs may attempt to steal login credentials, financial information, or other sensitive data, putting users at risk of identity theft or fraud.

Furthermore, browser hijacking can be a part of a larger malware infection. In such cases, adware or hijacker may serve as a gateway for other malicious software, such as ransomware, keyloggers, or spyware, further compromising the user’s system and data. Also, browser-based threats with data collection abilities can cause severe problems. They can gather sensitive information such as login credentials, financial data, and personal details, leading to identity theft and fraud. The collected data may also be sold to third parties, compromising user privacy. Additionally, targeted advertising based on the collected information can result in a flood of intrusive and potentially malicious ads.

How can I know if I have an adware or browser hijacker?

If you have an adware or browser hijacker, such as PCN Parking Scam installed on your device, you may notice a few clear indications. Users need to exercise caution if they encounter any of the following signs, as it could suggest their system is compromised.

• If users find that their default homepage or preferred search engine has been substituted without their authorization, they should be on high alert.
• If users notice that their search queries are being rerouted to unfamiliar websites, it’s important for them to be cautious and aware of this redirection behavior.
• When users are bombarded with an excessive number of intrusive pop-up ads appearing frequently, they should be cautious and wary of the abundance of unsolicited advertisements.
• If users experience delays in the loading of webpages, where the content takes an unusually long time to appear, it is important for them to remain vigilant and take note of this sluggish performance.
• Should users notice the sudden appearance of unauthorized toolbars on their internet browser, it is crucial for them to exercise caution and be mindful of these unapproved additions.

Antimalware Details And User Guide

Click Here For Windows Click Here For Mac

Important Note: This malware asks you to enable the web browser notifications. So, before you go the manual removal process, execute these steps.

Google Chrome (PC)

• Go to right upper corner of the screen and click on three dots to open the Menu button
• Select “Settings”. Scroll the mouse downward to choose “Advanced” option
• Go to “Privacy and Security” section by scrolling downward and then select “Content settings” and then “Notification” option
• Find each suspicious URLs and click on three dots on the right side and choose “Block” or “Remove” option

Google Chrome (Android)

• Go to right upper corner of the screen and click on three dots to open the menu button and then click on “Settings”
• Scroll down further to click on “site settings” and then press on “notifications” option
• In the newly opened window, choose each suspicious URLs one by one
• In the permission section, select “notification” and “Off” the toggle button

Mozilla Firefox

• On the right corner of the screen, you will notice three dots which is the “Menu” button
• Select “Options” and choose “Privacy and Security” in the toolbar present in the left side of the screen
• Slowly scroll down and go to “Permission” section then choose “Settings” option next to “Notifications”
• In the newly opened window, select all the suspicious URLs. Click on the drop-down menu and select “Block”

Internet Explorer

• In the Internet Explorer window, select the Gear button present on the right corner
• Choose “Internet Options”
• Select “Privacy” tab and then “Settings” under the “Pop-up Blocker” section
• Select all the suspicious URLs one by one and click on the “Remove” option

Microsoft Edge

• Open the Microsoft Edge and click on the three dots on the right corner of the screen to open the menu
• Scroll down and select “Settings”
• Scroll down further to choose “view advanced settings”
• In the “Website Permission” option, click on “Manage” option
• Click on switch under every suspicious URL

Safari (Mac):

• On the upper right side corner, click on “Safari” and then select “Preferences”
• Go to “website” tab and then choose “Notification” section on the left pane
• Search for the suspicious URLs and choose “Deny” option for each one of them

Manual Steps to Remove PCN Parking Scam:

Remove the related items of PCN Parking Scam using Control-Panel

Windows 7 Users

Click “Start” (the windows logo at the bottom left corner of the desktop screen), select “Control Panel”. Locate the “Programs” and then followed by clicking on “Uninstall Program”

Windows XP Users

Click “Start” and then choose “Settings” and then click “Control Panel”. Search and click on “Add or Remove Program’ option

Windows 10 and 8 Users:

Go to the lower left corner of the screen and right-click. In the “Quick Access” menu, choose “Control Panel”. In the newly opened window, choose “Program and Features”

Mac OSX Users

Click on “Finder” option. Choose “Application” in the newly opened screen. In the “Application” folder, drag the app to “Trash”. Right click on the Trash icon and then click on “Empty Trash”.

In the uninstall programs window, search for the PUAs. Choose all the unwanted and suspicious entries and click on “Uninstall” or “Remove”.

After you uninstall all the potentially unwanted program causing PCN Parking Scam issues, scan your computer with an anti-malware tool for any remaining PUPs and PUAs or possible malware infection. To scan the PC, use the recommended the anti-malware tool.

How to Remove Adware (PCN Parking Scam) from Internet Browsers

Delete malicious add-ons and extensions from IE

Click on the gear icon at the top right corner of Internet Explorer. Select “Manage Add-ons”. Search for any recently installed plug-ins or add-ons and click on “Remove”.

Additional Option

If you still face issues related to PCN Parking Scam removal, you can reset the Internet Explorer to its default setting.

Windows XP users: Press on “Start” and click “Run”. In the newly opened window, type “inetcpl.cpl” and click on the “Advanced” tab and then press on “Reset”.

Windows Vista and Windows 7 Users: Press the Windows logo, type inetcpl.cpl in the start search box and press enter.  In the newly opened window, click on the “Advanced Tab” followed by “Reset” button.

For Windows 8 Users: Open IE and click on the “gear” icon. Choose “Internet Options”

Select the “Advanced” tab in the newly opened window

Press on “Reset” option

You have to press on the “Reset” button again to confirm that you really want to reset the IE

Remove Doubtful and Harmful Extension from Google Chrome

Go to menu of Google Chrome by pressing on three vertical dots and select on “More tools” and then “Extensions”. You can search for all the recently installed add-ons and remove all of them.

Optional Method

If the problems related to PCN Parking Scam still persists or you face any issue in removing, then it is advised that your reset the Google Chrome browse settings. Go to three dotted points at the top right corner and choose “Settings”. Scroll down bottom and click on “Advanced”.

At the bottom, notice the “Reset” option and click on it.

In the next opened window, confirm that you want to reset the Google Chrome settings by click on the “Reset” button.

Remove PCN Parking Scam plugins (including all other doubtful plug-ins) from Firefox Mozilla

Open the Firefox menu and select “Add-ons”. Click “Extensions”.  Select all the recently installed browser plug-ins.

Optional Method

If you face problems in PCN Parking Scam removal then you have the option to rese the settings of Mozilla Firefox.

Open the browser (Mozilla Firefox) and click on the “menu” and then click on “Help”.

Choose “Troubleshooting Information”

In the newly opened pop-up window, click “Refresh Firefox” button

The next step is to confirm that really want to reset the Mozilla Firefox settings to its default by clicking on “Refresh Firefox” button.

Remove Malicious Extension from Safari

Open the Safari and go to its “Menu” and select “Preferences”.

Click on the “Extension” and select all the recently installed “Extensions” and then click on “Uninstall”.

Optional Method

Open the “Safari” and go menu. In the drop-down menu, choose “Clear History and Website Data”.

In the newly opened window, select “All History” and then press on “Clear History” option.

Delete PCN Parking Scam (malicious add-ons) from Microsoft Edge

Open Microsoft Edge and go to three horizontal dot icons at the top right corner of the browser. Select all the recently installed extensions and right click on the mouse to “uninstall”

Optional Method

Open the browser (Microsoft Edge) and select “Settings”

Next steps is to click on “Choose what to clear” button

Click on “show more” and then select everything and then press on “Clear” button.

How to prevent PCN Parking Scam infection?

There are multiple measures to safeguard against browser hijacking or adware infection:

1. Be cautious when downloading software. Browser-based parasite, such as PCN Parking Scam often disguises itself as legitimate software, so carefully read all terms, conditions, and end user licensing agreements before downloading any programs.
2. Avoid running freeware programs that may unpack software during installation. Prior to installing any software, review the download settings to ensure no unwanted software is included.
3. Exercise caution when encountering suspicious links. Refrain from clicking on email links, messages, or pop-up boxes from unfamiliar senders, as they may trigger the download of browser hijackers or adware.
4. Keep your operating system (OS) and browser up to date. Regularly applying OS and browser patches is vital to prevent hijacking attacks, as attackers often exploit known vulnerabilities. Updating software closes these potential entry points.
5. Utilize antivirus software. Install reliable antivirus software and keep it updated with the latest patches. It offers protection against browser hijacking, notifying users in real-time if downloaded software attempts to modify browser settings. Certain antivirus software empowers users to block such alterations.

By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of potentially unwanted program intrusion and keep your PC system safe and secure.

Conclusion:

To sum up, PCN Parking Scam can cause significant problems for computer users, including unwanted browser redirects, changes to homepage and search engine settings, and even the installation of additional malware. These infections typically result from downloading and installing software from untrusted sources or clicking on suspicious links. To prevent browser hijackers or adware, it is important to be cautious when downloading and installing software, use reputable antivirus tool, and keep browsers and operating systems updated with the latest security patches.

Related FAQs about PCN Parking Scam

What are the Symptoms of Browser-hijacker (PCN Parking Scam)?

The common symptoms of PCN Parking Scam infection include changes to the default homepage and search engine, unwanted toolbars and extensions, pop-up ads, and redirects to unfamiliar websites. Additionally, the browser may slow down or crash frequently, and search results may be manipulated or irrelevant to the query.

What Should I do if my PC gets infected with virus like PCN Parking Scam?

If your computer is infected with this browser-based threat, you should immediately run a virus scan using reputable antivirus software. If the software detects the malware, you should follow the removal instructions provided by it to eliminate the infection and restore your browser settings to default.

How can I protect my password and other personal credentials from PCN Parking Scam?

To protect your password and other sensitive information from PCN Parking Scam, you should employ reputable antivirus suite, enable two-factor authentication on all accounts, and use strong and unique passwords for each account. Also, you should avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading software from untrusted sources.

Why I should trust your research conducted on PCN Parking Scam?

It’s important to mention that our research is conducted independently and with the assistance of unbiased security experts, who provide us with daily updates on the latest definitions and threats related to malware, adware, and browser hijackers. Moreover, our study on the PCN Parking Scam threat is supported by VirusTotal.