Cancún Fights Corruption with QR Code ID Badges for Workers

Cancún, Mexico — The municipality of Benito Juárez has initiated its "Zero Corruption" campaign, mandating all public officials to wear identification badges equipped with QR codes for transparency and accountability. The program, launched on April 30, 2025, aims to combat corruption through five key measures, including streamlined digital payments and anonymous complaint mechanisms.

Mandatory Badges with QR Codes for Accountability

Ana Paty Peralta de la Peña, Mayor of Benito Juárez, emphasized that the badges will display each employee’s position, functions, and employment status. Citizens can scan the QR code to verify credentials or file complaints directly with the Municipal Comptroller’s Office.

“Today, I say it loud and clear: our commitment is zero corruption. Those who do not comply will expose themselves and have no place in our government,” Peralta stated during the launch.

Sanctions and Citizen Cooperation

The mayor revealed that 192 municipal employees have been sanctioned over the past three years following investigations into citizen complaints. She urged residents to refrain from enabling corrupt practices and to report misconduct.

“Citizens must support us by reporting and not seeking unfair advantages. We must be impeccable and work together—government and citizens—which is why this campaign is a shared effort,” Peralta added.

Five-Pronged Anti-Corruption Strategy

The campaign’s measures include:

1. Mandatory ID badges for inspectors, verifiers, and notifiers.
2. QR codes linked to complaint filings.
3. Automated payment kiosks for transparent transactions.
4. Online payment systems to eliminate intermediaries.
5. Digital receipt verification.

Hilario Gutiérrez Valasis, Municipal Comptroller, explained that the QR system ensures complaints are processed confidentially and efficiently. Penalties for violations range from reprimands and fines to disqualification from public service or criminal charges.

“When a complaint is filed, it goes directly to the investigation unit, initiating a secure process within the Comptroller’s Office without jeopardizing the complainant,” Gutiérrez said.

The initiative underscores Cancún’s broader push for transparency amid ongoing efforts to curb corruption in public service.