Drivers are being warned about scam text messages demanding fake payments for unpaid parking charges.
The messages claim to be from parking management company ParkingEye and urge recipients to settle a supposed unpaid fee by following a link.
ParkingEye has confirmed it does not issue parking charges via text or email and said the messages are fraudulent.
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A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: "ParkingEye do not send parking charges via text or email."
Drivers are advised not to click the link, reply, or enter any personal information.
The wording of the scam messages may vary but typically state that a parking fee has not been paid and threaten additional charges or “administrative restrictions” if payment is not made quickly.
A recent example reads: “Our records currently indicate that the parking fee associated with your vehicle has not been successfully settled.
“To avoid additional charges and any administrative restrictions… please complete payment at your earliest convenience.”
Anyone who receives such a message should forward it to 7726, a free reporting service that notifies mobile networks so they can investigate and block the sender.
Recipients should then delete the message.
Fraud attempts can also be reported to Action Fraud via actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Thames Valley Police said genuine parking charge notices are only issued by post and include a reference number, location, date, and clear instructions for payment or appeal.
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