An emerging trend of false parking fines and “infringement notices” plastered on vehicles is causing increasing frustration among drivers across Australia. While some may see the tactic as a clever marketing ploy, experts warn that it could cross serious ethical and legal boundaries.
This week, the latest example appeared online and drew fierce criticism from Tasmanians. In Hobart, drivers found QR codes attached to their cars, accompanied by a fake infringement notice claiming they had committed an “alleged offence” of “not paying for parking,” which supposedly carried an $180 penalty.
The notice even included a due date and a “road rule number,” making it look official. However, a quick scan of the QR code revealed it was simply an advertisement for a clothing brand, not an actual violation.
City authorities in Hobart have taken the matter seriously. Acting CEO Michael Reynolds confirmed that the fake fines have been reported to Tasmania Police. “The City of Hobart is aware of fake infringement notices and has reported them,” Reynolds told Yahoo News Australia. “Our Parking Information Officers are monitoring the situation and urge the community to carefully check notices and report any suspicious ones.”
Marketing experts express concern over such tactics. Dr. Andrew Hughes from the Australian National University warned that this kind of guerrilla advertising “very well could be” in breach of consumer law. He explained that laws prohibit falsely claiming to be a government agency or organization, and such misleading tactics could be considered deceptive and outlawed in Australia.
“Some people might perceive these notices as misleading or deceptive, which is illegal,” Hughes said. “They can also cause unnecessary distress, especially to vulnerable consumers who may not realize it’s just an advertisement or promotion.”
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