Latest news with #PaulHampson
Western Telegraph
a day ago
- Western Telegraph
Drivers warned not to pay at pump after petrol station scam
Skimming devices, often hidden in plain sight on card readers at unattended pumps, are being used to clone debit and credit card information - leaving victims unaware until it's too late. A fraud expert has issued a warning to drivers after a rise in petrol station scams, where criminals use card skimmers to steal card details and create copies of cards. Paul Hampson, CEO of fraud and scam recovery firm CEL Solicitors, warns that the contactless and chip-and-PIN fraud can take money out of your account but also any overdraft allowances on the card, leaving many in financial difficulty. 'These scams are designed to be virtually undetectable,' he says. 'Criminals install fake card slots or hidden chips that skim your details as soon as you insert your card. It's fast, silent and can affect anyone who isn't on high alert.' Petrol stations are an ideal target because drivers are often distracted and in a rush - especially at night or in quieter locations. 'The most common tactic is to fit a false front to the card machine, or place a tiny device inside the slot,' Mr Hampson explains. 'Some will even hide miniature cameras to record your PIN. These devices can be installed and removed in under a minute.' He advises all motorists to be extra cautious at unattended pumps, particularly those open 24/7. Signs of tampering with card machines Loose or misaligned card slots Unusually bulky keypads Sticky residue or tape Parts that flex or move when touched 'If anything looks suspicious, don't take the risk,' Mr Hampson says. 'Go inside and pay at the counter instead.' He also recommends covering the keypad when entering your PIN - even if nobody is nearby. 'Many victims feel embarrassed they were caught out, but these devices are sophisticated and hard to spot,' he says. 'The fault lies with the fraudsters - not you.' If you suspect you've been skimmed, report it to your bank immediately and check for suspicious activity. 'Act fast,' Mr Hampson says. 'The sooner you flag it, the easier it is to freeze your card and limit the damage.' NEWS: Up to £18 billion car finance compensation likely to be paid out. Are you one of millions due £100s back (and what you need to do). Full video briefing. Plus free template letters at — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) August 3, 2025 He's now urging petrol retailers to check card machines more regularly and improve security - especially at unattended pumps. 'A quick check could save you hundreds,' he adds. 'Drivers need to stay alert.' Motoring experts at have revealed five key tricks fraudsters are using - from tampered QR codes on parking meters to convincing fake DVLA messages - and are warning Brits to stay vigilant or risk losing their hard-earned cash. Driving scams are increasing, experts warn John Wilmot, CEO of car lease comparison website LeaseLoco, warns: 'Unfortunately driving-related scams are really common and they work well for fraudsters because they can create a sense of urgency. 'A lot of these scams will urge you to quickly pay a fee to avoid facing bigger fines. When we see something like this we often rush to get the payment done rather than stopping and checking the legitimacy of the message or letter. Recommended reading: 'The good news is there are ways to spot these scams which can prevent you from losing any money. 'For example, if you've been contacted via text message to pay a fine, be conscious of who it is from. Organisations like the DVLA will never ask for money or personal information on a text message. 'By taking a moment to verify the legitimacy of these alerts you could save yourself from losing out on potentially thousands of pounds.'
South Wales Guardian
2 days ago
- Business
- South Wales Guardian
Drivers warned not to pay at pump after petrol station scam
Skimming devices, often hidden in plain sight on card readers at unattended pumps, are being used to clone debit and credit card information - leaving victims unaware until it's too late. A fraud expert has issued a warning to drivers after a rise in petrol station scams, where criminals use card skimmers to steal card details and create copies of cards. Paul Hampson, CEO of fraud and scam recovery firm CEL Solicitors, warns that the contactless and chip-and-PIN fraud can take money out of your account but also any overdraft allowances on the card, leaving many in financial difficulty. 'These scams are designed to be virtually undetectable,' he says. 'Criminals install fake card slots or hidden chips that skim your details as soon as you insert your card. It's fast, silent and can affect anyone who isn't on high alert.' Petrol stations are an ideal target because drivers are often distracted and in a rush - especially at night or in quieter locations. 'The most common tactic is to fit a false front to the card machine, or place a tiny device inside the slot,' Mr Hampson explains. 'Some will even hide miniature cameras to record your PIN. These devices can be installed and removed in under a minute.' He advises all motorists to be extra cautious at unattended pumps, particularly those open 24/7. 'If anything looks suspicious, don't take the risk,' Mr Hampson says. 'Go inside and pay at the counter instead.' He also recommends covering the keypad when entering your PIN - even if nobody is nearby. 'Many victims feel embarrassed they were caught out, but these devices are sophisticated and hard to spot,' he says. 'The fault lies with the fraudsters - not you.' If you suspect you've been skimmed, report it to your bank immediately and check for suspicious activity. 'Act fast,' Mr Hampson says. 'The sooner you flag it, the easier it is to freeze your card and limit the damage.' NEWS: Up to £18 billion car finance compensation likely to be paid out. Are you one of millions due £100s back (and what you need to do). Full video briefing. Plus free template letters at He's now urging petrol retailers to check card machines more regularly and improve security - especially at unattended pumps. 'A quick check could save you hundreds,' he adds. 'Drivers need to stay alert.' Motoring experts at have revealed five key tricks fraudsters are using - from tampered QR codes on parking meters to convincing fake DVLA messages - and are warning Brits to stay vigilant or risk losing their hard-earned cash. John Wilmot, CEO of car lease comparison website LeaseLoco, warns: 'Unfortunately driving-related scams are really common and they work well for fraudsters because they can create a sense of urgency. 'A lot of these scams will urge you to quickly pay a fee to avoid facing bigger fines. When we see something like this we often rush to get the payment done rather than stopping and checking the legitimacy of the message or letter. Recommended reading: 'The good news is there are ways to spot these scams which can prevent you from losing any money. 'For example, if you've been contacted via text message to pay a fine, be conscious of who it is from. Organisations like the DVLA will never ask for money or personal information on a text message. 'By taking a moment to verify the legitimacy of these alerts you could save yourself from losing out on potentially thousands of pounds.'
The Herald Scotland
3 days ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Drivers warned not to pay at pump after petrol station scam
A fraud expert has issued a warning to drivers after a rise in petrol station scams, where criminals use card skimmers to steal card details and create copies of cards. Paul Hampson, CEO of fraud and scam recovery firm CEL Solicitors, warns that the contactless and chip-and-PIN fraud can take money out of your account but also any overdraft allowances on the card, leaving many in financial difficulty. 'These scams are designed to be virtually undetectable,' he says. 'Criminals install fake card slots or hidden chips that skim your details as soon as you insert your card. It's fast, silent and can affect anyone who isn't on high alert.' Petrol stations are an ideal target because drivers are often distracted and in a rush - especially at night or in quieter locations. 'The most common tactic is to fit a false front to the card machine, or place a tiny device inside the slot,' Mr Hampson explains. 'Some will even hide miniature cameras to record your PIN. These devices can be installed and removed in under a minute.' He advises all motorists to be extra cautious at unattended pumps, particularly those open 24/7. Signs of tampering with card machines Loose or misaligned card slots Unusually bulky keypads Sticky residue or tape Parts that flex or move when touched 'If anything looks suspicious, don't take the risk,' Mr Hampson says. 'Go inside and pay at the counter instead.' He also recommends covering the keypad when entering your PIN - even if nobody is nearby. 'Many victims feel embarrassed they were caught out, but these devices are sophisticated and hard to spot,' he says. 'The fault lies with the fraudsters - not you.' If you suspect you've been skimmed, report it to your bank immediately and check for suspicious activity. 'Act fast,' Mr Hampson says. 'The sooner you flag it, the easier it is to freeze your card and limit the damage.' NEWS: Up to £18 billion car finance compensation likely to be paid out. Are you one of millions due £100s back (and what you need to do). Full video briefing. Plus free template letters at — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) August 3, 2025 He's now urging petrol retailers to check card machines more regularly and improve security - especially at unattended pumps. 'A quick check could save you hundreds,' he adds. 'Drivers need to stay alert.' Motoring experts at have revealed five key tricks fraudsters are using - from tampered QR codes on parking meters to convincing fake DVLA messages - and are warning Brits to stay vigilant or risk losing their hard-earned cash. Driving scams are increasing, experts warn John Wilmot, CEO of car lease comparison website LeaseLoco, warns: 'Unfortunately driving-related scams are really common and they work well for fraudsters because they can create a sense of urgency. 'A lot of these scams will urge you to quickly pay a fee to avoid facing bigger fines. When we see something like this we often rush to get the payment done rather than stopping and checking the legitimacy of the message or letter. Recommended reading: 'The good news is there are ways to spot these scams which can prevent you from losing any money. 'For example, if you've been contacted via text message to pay a fine, be conscious of who it is from. Organisations like the DVLA will never ask for money or personal information on a text message. 'By taking a moment to verify the legitimacy of these alerts you could save yourself from losing out on potentially thousands of pounds.'
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Record
Fuel pay at pump scam warning issued as experts reveal 'almost undetectable' trap
Experts are warning that fraudsters are placing sophisticated skimming devices at petrol and diesel fuel pumps Motorists are being warned of a petrol station scam that could leave their bank accounts bone dry. Worryingly, experts have warned that it's almost "undetectable". Fraudsters are reportedly using sophisticated skimming devices at petrol and diesel pumps, often hidden in plain sight. These skimming tools are used to clone debit and credit card information, granting the fraudsters access to motorists' personal details. Paul Hampson, CEO of fraud and scam recovery firm CEL Solicitors, highlighted that these scam devices have been placed on card readers at unmanned fuel pumps, dealing a major blow to motorists. This means those who pay at the pump rather than at the kiosk could be at an increased risk of falling victim, reports the Express. "These scams are designed to be virtually undetectable," Paul said. "Criminals install fake card slots or hidden chips that skim your details as soon as you insert your card. It's fast, silent and can affect anyone who isn't on high alert." He further explained: "The most common tactic is to fit a false front to the card machine, or place a tiny device inside the slot. Some will even hide miniature cameras to record your PIN. These devices can be installed and removed in under a minute." CEL Solicitors reveals that forecourts present almost perfect conditions for crooks to plant these gadgets. Drivers are frequently distracted and hurrying, whilst criminals can meddle with pumps during nighttime hours or at quieter spots. Paul highlighted that motorists might spot several warning signs indicating a pay-at-the-pump terminal has been interfered with. These could involve a wobbly or poorly-aligned card reader, abnormally thick keypads, tacky marks or adhesive tape, or components that appear to bend or shift when pressed. He's also urged petrol station operators to inspect their card terminals more frequently and enhance security measures to reduce anxiety. Drivers who suspect they've been targeted by this con trick should contact their bank straight away and examine their account for any dodgy transactions. Paul continued: "If anything looks suspicious, don't take the risk. Go inside and pay at the counter instead. "Many victims feel embarrassed they were caught out, but these devices are sophisticated and hard to spot. The fault lies with the fraudsters - not you." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. There's nothing wrong with wanting to add a personal touch to your car, but there are certain add ons that could impact insurance if an accident occurs. For instance, baby on board signs are a good way to let drivers around you know that you're transporting a little one, hopefully encouraging them to take extra caution. However, if placed incorrectly, these could obstruct your rear view and become a hazard.
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
How to spot a fake parking ticket and avoid a costly scam
By It's a sinking feeling - returning to your car after a day out or nipping to the shops to find a yellow parking ticket slapped on your windscreen. Did you use the car park without paying? Or perhaps spend a few extra hours in the shops, overstaying the time limit? For a growing number of drivers it's neither as these parking charge notices (PCNs) are actually fake tickets placed there by scammers in a bid to drain the victim's bank account, This is Money can reveal. Motorists have long been plagued with scam parking fine texts and dodgy QR codes stuck to parking payment meters. But just as motorists are cottoning on to these vile tricks, scammers have turned to old school methods of ripping off innocent motorists. How does it work? Increasing numbers of drivers are being sucked into the convincing scam, experts reveal. Paul Hampson, fraud specialist at Liverpool-based CEL Solicitors, has noticed a growing number of cases pass by his desk. He says: 'We originally thought these cases were isolated but the number of clients coming to us has significantly increased. We're now seeing a clear pattern – same scam, different postcodes, often with the same cloned branding.' The scam tickets will look remarkably similar to the real yellow tickets. And the notice is just as convincing when opened. 'These scams are worryingly sophisticated. Everything about these fake tickets looks authentic - the branding, the language, even the payment site. We've seen tickets that use real registration plates, correct car park names and even cloned council logos. Victims often don't realise until their card has been drained.' When unsuspecting drivers open the fake ticket, they'll be greeted with a logo from a legitimate parking company or the local council and often their own registration number. The crooks will include real information about the car they have gathered through publicly available data or by looking at car number plates in a car park. Plus, there will either be a website link or a QR code to a payment portal to strip you of your cash. Only £60 or £70 will be asked for – but once you enter your card details into the fake portal, fraudsters can run wild with the information and make larger purchases. Where are the scam hotspots? If you live in or visit a busy area, it's vital to keep a keen eye out for the bogus tickets, Mr Hampson warns. 'We've found it's often places with heavy footfall – retail parks, commuter hubs, or busy seafronts – where these scammers thrive. They rely on people being in a rush and not questioning the fine.' Reports of the cruel trick have emerged in London as swathes of these bogus PCNs have been found in Peckham, Islington and Stratford. Plus, Southampton City Council was even forced to issue a warning after empty PCNs were found on vehicles. The British Parking Association has also acknowledged rising reports of these fraudulent tickets mimicking real notices – on private land, and in pay and display areas. But it also reveals the fake tickets can be used by drivers to park anywhere they like without paying for parking, as one user has gloated on social media, or to deter others from parking on their road. A Welsh town was last year plagued with phoney yellow parking tickets as residents tried to stop others parking in their neighbourhoods. But the scammers have more dangerous motives. And what's worse is the fake PCNs are easily available online for those with malicious intent. What to do if you spot a bogus yellow ticket If you find a yellow PCN on your car with a QR code to pay the fine, do not scan it. Legitimate tickets will rarely, if ever, use a QR to accept payments. If you are directed to a web address to make a payment, verify it first. Another trick you can use to check the validity of a ticket is to look for urgent statements, for example, if the PCN warns you must make immediate payment to escape legal action. Mr Hampson says: 'Legitimate parking fines usually allow an appeal process – scammers want you to act fast and skip that step.' If in doubt, you can always contact the council or parking company independently to verify the fine. You should take a photograph of the fine to show the parking company. Report the scam to Action Fraud. If you have already used the fake PCN to pay the fine, you should contact your bank and freeze your card. Mr Hampson says: 'These criminals are clever, but the same rules apply - slow down, don't pay under pressure, and verify before clicking or scanning anything. A fake PCN might cost you £70 on the surface - but thousands in stolen data.' Watch out for card skimmers It comes as another callous new scam targeting motorists has popped up in Oxford. Scammers had attached skimming devices – which are devices used to capture card details without knowledge of the holder, typically at an ATM – on some of the payment machines. Three drivers said money had been taken – or were attempted to be withdrawn – from their account after using the payment machines at a city centre car park. One telltale sign is a 'card declined' message on the machine, officials say. While only the Oxford case is currently known, the British Parking Association warns this cruel trick could be attempted elsewhere in future. It is asking motorists to be aware of this scam when paying for parking – and to report anything unusual to authorities and Action Fraud. Have you been hit with a fake parking ticket? Email:
