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What Canadian Data Shows
Fraud in Canada in 2025 is surging. In 2023, police-reported fraud incidents nearly doubled over the last decade—from 260 per 100,000 people in 2013 to 501 per 100,000 in 2023—and only 1 in 10 victims report these crimes to the police.
Furthermore, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) recorded over $569 million lost to fraud in 2023, noting that most incidents go unreported. Government of Canada
As scammers adapt, they’re now using a subtle method: unsolicited packages with QR codes meant to steal your data or money.
How the Scam Works
This scheme is a variation of a brushing scam, where sellers send items to random people so they can post fake positive reviews under the recipient’s name.
In this variation:
A QR code is printed on or inside the package
Scanning it can lead to:
Fraudulent payment pages
Malicious software downloads
Cryptocurrency ATM payment instructions sending funds directly to scammers
The scam exploits the fact that QR codes are now a common and trusted technology in Canada
Why Canadians Should Care
Since the coronavirus pandemic, QR codes have been widely adopted for menus, contactless payments, Canada Post tracking, and government services.
That familiarity can make Canadians—especially seniors—more likely to trust them.
Fraudsters are adapting to these behaviors, blending old tricks with new tech.
How to Protect Yourself
Do NOT scan QR codes from packages or letters you didn’t order
Treat packages with no sender information as suspicious
Never give your phone or app permissions just because a QR code requests it
If you suspect you’re part of a brushing scam:
Change account passwords immediately
Monitor your bank accounts and credit cards for unusual activity
Request a free credit report from Equifax Canada or TransUnion Canada
If You’ve Been Targeted in Canada
Report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) at 1-888-495-8501
File a report with your local police service
If cryptocurrency or banking funds are involved, alert your financial institution immediately
Seniors needing assistance can contact the Seniors Safety Line in their province (e.g., Ontario: 1-866-299-1011)
Other QR Code Scam Types to Watch For
Government or utility impersonation scams – QR codes directing to fake CRA or Hydro payment portals
Romance scams – requests for cryptocurrency via QR code
Prize or lottery scams – QR codes to “claim winnings” that demand fees
Internal & External Resources
Internal ScamShield Digest Links:
Trusted External Sources:
