Authorities in Whistler, British Columbia, are issuing a warning to residents and visitors after the discovery of fraudulent QR code stickers in local parking lots. The deceptive stickers were placed over legitimate payment instructions in an attempt to steal financial information from unsuspecting drivers.
Details of the Parking Lot Scam
The scam, reported on December 29, 2025, involved criminals placing counterfeit QR code decals on parking meter signage and payment kiosks in Whistler Village. These stickers were designed to closely mimic the official payment portals used by the resort municipality. When scanned by a smartphone, the fraudulent codes would redirect users to a convincing but fake website meant to harvest credit card details and personal information.
Local bylaw officers and the RCMP were alerted to the issue after several vigilant parkers noticed discrepancies in the payment process. The stickers were found in multiple lots, suggesting a coordinated effort to defraud a high volume of tourists and locals during the busy holiday season.
How to Protect Yourself from QR Code Fraud
Security experts advise the public to exercise extreme caution when using QR codes for payments, especially in public spaces. Always verify the URL that appears on your phone after scanning. Official municipal payment sites will use secure (https) and legitimate domain names. If you are redirected to a suspicious or unfamiliar web address, do not enter any information.
Additionally, it is recommended to use official parking apps where available, as they provide a more secure transaction method than scanning a static code. If you suspect you have encountered a fraudulent sticker, do not touch it. Instead, report its location immediately to Whistler bylaw services or the local RCMP detachment.
Ongoing Investigation and Broader Implications
The Whistler RCMP have launched an investigation into the incident. This type of physical-digital hybrid scam represents an evolving threat, merging simple vandalism with sophisticated cyber fraud. Similar schemes have been reported in urban parking structures across North America, but this marks a notable occurrence in a major Canadian tourist destination.
Municipal officials have confirmed that all known fraudulent stickers have been removed. They are conducting additional patrols to inspect payment stations. The resort municipality of Whistler is also reviewing its physical signage to see if more tamper-evident features can be added to prevent future incidents.
This event serves as a critical reminder for consumers everywhere to remain alert. As QR codes become ubiquitous for payments, promotions, and information, they also become a lucrative vector for criminals. Always double-check the source before scanning, and trust your instincts if something seems amiss.
