News release

Penticton RCMP warn residents of national QR code parking scam

August 6, 2025 - Penticton, British Columbia
From: British Columbia RCMP

Content

Penticton RCMP are warning residents and visitors to be cautious after cases of a QR code parking scam have been reported locally and across the country.

The scam involves fake QR codes placed on or near parking meters, signage, or pay stations. When scanned, these codes direct users to fraudulent websites that mimic legitimate parking payment systems. Victims unknowingly enter their personal and financial information, which can then be stolen and used for fraudulent transactions.

Penticton RCMP remind the public that the City of Penticton’s official parking system  is the Passport Canada Parking app. This app does not use QR codes for payment. If you encounter a QR code claiming to link to a parking payment page, do not scan it and report it immediately.

How to protect yourself:

• Only use the official Passport Canada Parking app or pay at designated parking meters.
• Do not scan QR codes for parking payments— the Passport Canada Parking app does not use them.
• If you have scanned a suspicious QR code and entered payment details, contact your financial institution immediately and report the incident to the RCMP.
   

Anyone who encounters suspicious parking signage or QR codes in Penticton is asked to contact the Penticton RCMP non-emergency line at 250-492-4300.
For more information on parking in Penticton, visit penticton.ca/parking
 

Contacts