The New Westminster Police Department is investigating a wave of fraudulent QR-code stickers affixed to parking meters across the city after multiple residents reported large, unauthorised withdrawals following transactions.
How the scam works
Police say the stickers, labelled “scan to pay,” direct motorists to what appears to be a legitimate payment page. People who entered their credit-card details were later surprised to find significant sums removed from their accounts. In one reported instance, a victim had $2,000 taken from their bank account.
Police response and public alert
Officers have been removing the fraudulent stickers from meters and are actively looking into who put them there. The New Westminster Police Department is urging anyone who used a QR code on a parking meter within the previous five days to check bank statements closely and to report any suspicious transactions immediately.
“Our officers have already removed numerous stickers on meters throughout the city,” said NWPD 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 for parking payments, the police advisory notes. Acceptable payment methods are displayed on the meters themselves.
What residents should do now
Police and financial institutions recommend swift action if you suspect you were targeted. Steps include checking recent transactions, contacting your bank, and reporting suspected fraud to police. The force is also asking the public to share information about the scam with friends and family to limit further harm.
- Do not scan unfamiliar QR codes on parking meters; use the payment methods printed on the meter.
- Review your bank and credit-card statements if you used a meter in the last five days.
- Report suspicious withdrawals to your bank immediately and file a report with New Westminster police.
- If you see a sticker on a meter, contact the police non-emergency line to alert officers.
The incident highlights the ease with which scam operators can exploit everyday transactions using widely available tools such as QR codes. As cities adopt digital payment options, criminals have adapted by creating convincing fake interfaces that mimic legitimate services.
| Issue | Action |
|---|---|
| Scam involves QR-code stickers on meters | Do not use QR codes; follow meter payment instructions |
| Potential financial loss | Check accounts; contact bank and police immediately |
| Police activity | Stickers being removed; investigation ongoing |
Local officials have not released details on suspects or the scale of the operation beyond the reports of multiple victims and the single specified loss of $2,000. The case remains under active investigation by New Westminster police.
A practical takeaway for residents and visitors: when paying for municipal services in public spaces, verify payment methods against posted instructions and exercise caution before entering personal financial information online. The police advisory serves as a timely reminder that convenience tools such as QR codes can be manipulated to commit fraud.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by the scheme is asked to contact the New Westminster Police Department and their financial institution without delay. Sharing the warning with neighbours and social networks can help prevent others from becoming victims.
This developing story will be updated as the police provide further information.
