Skip to content

LETTER: Vaccine passports not effective without scanning

Does the B.C. vaccine passport make you feel more secure when you go to a restaurant, pub or event? Well, if your QR code is not scanned you might want to think about going somewhere else.
27544436_web1_LETTERSPenPaperC

Does the B.C. vaccine passport make you feel more secure when you go to a restaurant, pub or event? Well, if your QR code is not scanned you might want to think about going somewhere else.

The B.C. card has been criticized for being unsecured. The only security feature is the QR code. Scanning the code allows businesses to determine that you are who you say you are and that you are fully vaccinated. If the QR code is not scanned, there is no way to know whether or not it’s a fake.

Most Victorians are honest people, but let’s face it: there are still many folks who refuse to get vaccinated. And if a business doesn’t scan the code what is the risk of using a fake? Anyone with basic photo editing skills can make a very realistic counterfeit.

It’s pretty easy to determine if a business scans the code. Just hold back, watch a couple of folks ahead of you get seated and see if their QR codes are scanned.

When I present my vaccine passport and the QR code is not scanned I ask why. If I don’t get a satisfactory answer (so far I haven’t) I leave. Here is what I have been told:

“It takes too long to scan everyone.” ( Huh, but it’s the law.)

“Oh sorry, I forgot” (Really?)

“I believe you” (Why?)

Sometimes I just get a shy, shameful grin.

This regulation needs real enforcement in Victoria. It benefits all of us, customers and businesses alike. Those of us who believe in vaccinations want to feel safe when we dine out or attend an event. If the QR code is not scanned are we really safe?

Andy Beers

Victoria