The New Westminster Police Department is urging residents to be vigilant after scammers placed fraudulent QR-code stickers on parking meters across the city that direct motorists to phoney payment sites.
What happened
Officers have received numerous calls from people who scanned QR codes labelled “scan to pay” on the front of parking meters and were taken to what appeared to be legitimate payment pages. Victims who entered their credit card information later discovered large, unauthorised withdrawals from their bank accounts. Police say one victim reported a $2,000 withdrawal.
Police response and public guidance
The New Westminster Police Department has removed a number of the stickers from meters across the city and is investigating the source of the fraudulent material. Authorities are asking anyone who used a QR code to pay for parking in the last five days to check their bank accounts and report any suspicious transactions to both police and their financial institution.
"Our officers have already removed numerous stickers on meters throughout the city," said Media Relations Officer Sgt. Andrew Leaver. "We would like to remind the public to be vigilant. While the stickers may appear legitimate, acceptable forms of payment are printed on signs above or on the meter."
The City of New Westminster does not use QR codes as a payment method for on-street parking. Signs on and above meters indicate the acceptable payment options.
How to stay safe
- Only use the payment options shown on the physical meter signage.
- Avoid scanning QR codes that appear to be stickers or that look tampered with.
- Check bank and credit-card statements regularly for unauthorised charges.
- Report suspected fraud to the New Westminster Police Department and to your bank immediately.
Local frauds that exploit everyday transactions — like paying for parking — underscore how low-cost, low-tech alterations can have an outsized impact on residents. The placement of stickers on publicly accessible equipment allows scammers to target a broad cross-section of the community, including visitors less familiar with local payment methods.
Context for New Westminster
New Westminster’s growth and increasing street-level activity mean on-street parking remains an important municipal service for residents, shoppers and businesses. Many users rely on quick, contactless payment methods; that convenience also creates opportunities for opportunistic fraud. Municipal communications and police outreach are now being used to make sure people know which payment channels are official.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Reported loss | $2,000 (one victim) |
| Time window for checks | Last five days |
| Official city policy | City does not use QR codes for parking payments |
Police ask community members to share warnings about the scam with friends, family and neighbours to reduce further harm. Those who find suspicious stickers on meters are asked to contact the New Westminster Police Department so officers can remove them and investigate.
Keeping payment options and on-street equipment secure is a municipal and community responsibility. Residents should treat unexpected QR codes with caution and use the clear indicators provided on meters when paying for parking.
