Kingston Council yesterday (Thursday, 8 January) highlighted that some residents have recently been targeted by Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) scams sent via text message.

In a post on social media, the council said: "We are aware a few residents were recently targeted by Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) scams sent via text message.

"Real PCNs are on physical paper, always include instructions on how to pay or appeal, and are issued with evidence. If you receive a text message and are unsure of its origin, do not make any payment or provide your bank details."

Guidance on how to identify PCN scams ca be found on the council's website here.

Additional information on how to pay or appeal a parking fine can be found here.