Drivers are being warned that scammers are operating in York car parks.
Some residents say they have already lost cash to the con.
Fake QR codes have been added to the official signs at car parks run by City of York Council.
The council said: “Fake QR codes have appeared on some pay by phone signs in our car parks.
“We are removing them where we find them, but please be vigilant.”
The council says it doesn’t use QR codes. The only ways to pay by phone are via the smartphone app, to call 0330 400 7275 or visit paybyphone.co.uk.
Writing on Facebook, one resident said: “I got scammed today at Wigginton Road Car Park.
I couldn’t get in the hospital car park so had no alternative than to go to Wigginton Road so I could keep my appointment.
“I had two payments taken by companies in Cyprus.
“Bank told me QR Codes are the most scammed things at the moment.”