Warning issued over parking fine scam targeting residents

Denbighshire County Council has warned residents about the scam, which claims they have been fined for parking illegally.

The texts and emails inform recipients that they have been issued a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) by a local council and invite them to pay the fine by clicking a link.

This link directs them to a fake government website.

Denbighshire County Council has reminded residents that only civil enforcement officers issue PCNs by attaching them to vehicles.

Anyone who has received these texts or emails is encouraged to report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or by visiting their website.

Councillor Barry Mellor, lead member for environment and transport, said: "We have been made aware of residents receiving fraudulent texts and emails claiming that the council has issued them with a Penalty Charge Notice for parking illegally.

"We’re urging residents that receive these messages to report it to Action Fraud and to not pay the fine through using the link provided.

"Our civil enforcement officers only issue Penalty Charge Notices by attaching them onto the vehicles themselves."

The council's warning aims to protect residents from falling victim to the scam, which could result in financial loss.

The council's civil enforcement officers are responsible for issuing PCNs and do so by physically attaching them to vehicles.

The council does not issue PCNs via text or email, making any such communications fraudulent.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Action Fraud.

This warning comes amid a rise in scams targeting residents, with fraudsters employing increasingly sophisticated methods to deceive people.

By raising awareness of this scam, the council hopes to prevent residents from falling victim and to ensure that those responsible are reported and dealt with appropriately.

The council continues to work closely with authorities to combat scams and protect residents.