Today, Irving police put North Texas drivers on alert about a brazen parking lot scam spreading across the Metroplex. Officers say con artists are walking up to people at shopping centers and gas stations, pressuring them to hand over their debit or credit cards, phones, or to send money through payment apps. Several victims have later discovered large, unexpected charges after what seemed like quick, awkward encounters in busy lots.
Police are urging residents to keep a tight grip on their financial information, refuse sketchy requests, and call for help if anyone gets aggressive or makes them feel unsafe.
What Irving’s alert says
As posted by the Irving Police Department, the suspects are working parking lots and may turn aggressive or intimidating to rush people into paying. The department warns that scammers sometimes offer candy or snacks, ask you to let them process a card on your own device, or insist that you send money through apps such as Cash App, Venmo or Zelle. Irving also noted that some victims reported unauthorized charges in the $2,500–$5,000 range after these encounters.
Be Aware of Scams! This scam is becoming increasingly common across the Metroplex. Scammers are growing more aggressive and creative, often targeting people in public places.Stay vigilant. If you see suspicious activity or feel unsafe, contact your local police department… pic.twitter.com/1RcZumRcGS
— Irving Police Dept. (@IrvingPD) February 13, 2026
Why this matters
Federal agencies say this kind of ruse often works because it manufactures a sense of urgency and leans on people’s goodwill, especially after high‑profile events or during packed shopping periods. Charity pitches and emotional appeals can lower people’s guard just long enough for scammers to cash in. The FBI has flagged charity and disaster‑related fraud as a recurring problem and recommends careful vetting of solicitations instead of acting on the spot, according to the FBI.
How to spot the tricks
Red flags include anyone pressuring you to pay immediately, asking you to hand over your phone or card, pulling out unfamiliar card‑reading devices, or insisting you pay only with gift cards, wire transfers or peer‑to‑peer apps. The Federal Trade Commission urges donors to research organizations, verify tax‑exempt status and give through official charity websites instead of paying someone on the spot, according to the Federal Trade Commission. It also recommends keeping receipts and regularly checking bank and app statements for any surprise charges.
If you were targeted
If you think you were scammed, contact your bank and the payment‑app company right away to ask about reversing charges, and file a police report. In Irving, call the non‑emergency dispatch at (972) 273‑1010 or dial 911 if you feel unsafe. The city also offers an online reporting tool for certain offenses, according to the City of Irving.
How to help safely
To support causes without supporting scammers, donate only through verified charities and their official websites, and use a credit card when possible for added fraud protections. Consumer advocates say to treat payment apps like cash, which means double‑checking recipients, trying a small test payment first and moving funds to your bank account promptly to reduce your exposure, according to Consumer Reports…