New York Citi Bikes being swiped by joyriding scammers

Scammers in New York City are stealing Citi Bikes by switching the QR scan codes on two bicycles near each other at a docking station, then waiting for an unsuspecting cyclist to try to unlock a bike with his or her smartphone app, according to the New York Post.

The ripped-off ride is worth only $3 by itself. But a victimized customer could be on the hook for the $1,200 bike if it ends up lost or stolen.

Citi Bike says it is aware of the issue and, while it has not been widespread, has been actively working to address it in a number of ways, including upgraded QR decals.