Motorists across the city are being scammed by fake payment websites.
Brighton and Hove City Council has issued an alert warning about the fraud.
A spokesman said: "We're aware that fraudulent companies have been masquerading as PayByPhone on Google.
"These companies are using advertising to trick people into visiting a website that pretends to be the PayByPhone site. It is not."
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The fake sites ask people to register and put in their credit or debit card details.
They then charge a subscription, which the legitimate PayByPhone company does not do.
People are urged only to download the PayByPhone app directly from the Apple or Google app stores or to only use the official website at https://www.paybyphone.co.uk.
People should also only use the PayByPhone automated phone line on 0330 400 7275.
A council spokesman said: "PayByPhone is working with the relevant authorities to have these sites removed.
"In the meantime, we urge you to exercise caution when providing your credit or debit card details online in case the site is fraudulent.
"Rest assured the authentic PayByPhone site remains a secure platform."
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