Fake QR codes found on New Westminster parking meters, police warn
Posted August 12, 2026 2:58 pm.
The New Westminster Police Department (NWPD) is warning residents after fraudulent QR codes were discovered on parking meters throughout the city.
The stickers, labelled “scan to pay,” direct users to what appears to be a legitimate payment website. However, police say the City of New Westminster does not use QR codes for parking payments.
According to investigators, people who scanned the codes and entered their credit card information were later targeted for fraud. In some cases, victims reported unauthorized withdrawals from their bank accounts within days of using the fake payment system.
Police said one victim lost $2,000 through the scam.
The NWPD is investigating how the fraudulent QR code stickers were placed on the city’s parking meters and who is responsible.
Anyone who used a QR code to pay for parking within the past five days is being urged to review their bank and credit card statements for suspicious transactions and report any fraudulent activity to their bank.
“Our officers have already removed numerous stickers on meters throughout the city,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver, the NWPD’s media relations officer. “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.”
Residents are reminded to use only the payment methods listed directly on parking meters or city signage when paying for parking.
