Ads posing as MPLS parking app, stealing data and money

Residents and visitors searching for the MPLS Parking app should look out for a scam posing as the legitimate app. This does not affect people already using the MPLS Parking app.

When using a search engine to find the MPLS Parking app, some people are finding sponsored ads instead that mimic the logo and language used in the official app. If clicked, these ads lead to third-party websites unaffiliated with the City of Minneapolis. These fraudulent websites ask for a credit card to download and use the free app, exposing victims’ card numbers and personal information. The City has taken action and reported four of these fraudulent advertisements to the search engine they’re sponsored on.

Tips

• Download the true Minneapolis Parking app directly from your phone’s app store:
• iPhone app store
• Google Play store

• Use the web app in your browser.

• See the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office phishing guide.

If you believe you’ve been the victim of this scam, immediately contact your bank or credit card company and file a report with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Find information on parking and driving in Minneapolis on the city website.