FRAUD FRIDAY: QR code scams

September 5, 2025

The Thunder Bay Police Service is continuing to advise the public of common scams that may affect local residents.


With the increasing prevalence of QR codes, these are also being used as a tool by scammers to conduct fraud schemes.


QR codes may be sent with email messages purporting to be from a service provider, government agency, or financial institution. These codes will provide a link to a fraudulent website that may result a device or network being infected with a virus, where users are asked to provide personal or financial details that can lead to identity theft.


Other scams may involve online purchases, where users are asked to scan a code to make or receive payment and then are directed to a fraudulent website asking for their account information.


Another scam involves fraudsters applying a fraudulent QR code sticker on top of a legitimate code.


Police urge residents to beware of any unsolicited text, email, or social media messages asking users to scan a QR code. If the QR code link doesn't match the name of the business, it may be fraud. As well, never scan a QR code to receive payment.


If you are concerned about potential scams and want to learn more, please visit https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/safety/fraud-prevention or contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/)


To make a fraud/cyber crime online report to the Thunder Bay Police Service, please visit: https://www.services.tryrubicon.com/thunder-bay-police-service/online-reports/report/fraud-cybercrime

Update: Thunder Bay Police Service Toy Drive delivers 13 full vehicles of toys, books, games, and more to families displaced by forest fires

July 21, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) congratulate the community for supporting a toy drive for children and families displaced by wildfires across the region. Thanks to the generosity of residents, families, local businesses and TBPS members, the Service has now delivered 13 fully packed vehicles of toys, books, games and comfort items to evacuees. These donations will help bring moments of joy to children and families experiencing significant disruption and uncertainty. “The kindness demonstrated by the people of Thunder Bay has been extraordinary,” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. “These contributions reflect a community that consistently steps forward to support others during difficult times.” In addition to individual donations, multiple local businesses made meaningful contributions. Local Tim Hortons locations, Tbaytel and Best Buy provided substantial support, and Gold X2 assisted with loading and delivering the donated items . The Thunder Bay Police Service extends its sincere appreciation to every person, family, business and organization that contributed to this effort. Your support has made a significant difference for families affected by the wildfires.

Major Crime Unit investigation leads to second degree murder charges

July 20, 2026
TB26028209 A Thunder Bay Police Service Major Crime Unit investigation has resulted in second-degree murder charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to a call for service regarding an assault in the Cumming Street area on the evening of July 18, 2026, around 11:00 PM. On scene a deceased individual was located. Further investigation led to two suspects being identified and arrested. As a result of the investigation, 29-year-old Steven RAFFERTY of Thunder Bay and 61-year-old Warnock RAFFERTY of Thunder Bay have both been charged with Second Degree Murder. Both of the accused were remanded into custody following their first court appearance. 

Thunder Bay Police Service Toy Drive now closed

July 20, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is once again expressing sincere gratitude to the community after a second surge of toy donations for children and families displaced by wildfires. Following the initial drop-off, residents, families, and TBPS members continued to bring in toys, games and books. The volume of items received over the past couple of days has grown substantially, exceeding expectations and TBPS is no longer accepting additional donations. The continued generosity shown by the people of Thunder Bay has been remarkable. These contributions will help bring comfort and moments of joy to families experiencing disruption and uncertainty. The Thunder Bay Police Service thanks every person, family, business and organization that contributed to this effort.