85/68 Tuesday, March 4, 2025
QR codes have become an essential tool in daily life, allowing users to quickly access websites, make payments, or view digital menus. However, cybercriminals have taken advantage of this popularity to commit fraud through a method known as QR phishing or quishing. They lure victims into scanning fake QR codes, which can lead to personal data theft, malware installation, or redirection to fraudulent websites designed to steal sensitive information. One of the most common tactics involves placing fake QR codes over legitimate ones at service points such as restaurants, parking meters, or public places. Scammers may also send QR codes via email or text messages, impersonating trusted organizations.
The effectiveness of QR code scams lies in the fact that QR codes do not display the actual URL before scanning, preventing users from verifying the link’s legitimacy beforehand. Additionally, people’s trust in QR codes—due to their widespread use in legitimate businesses—makes them an attractive tool for cybercriminals. Even the FBI has issued warnings about this growing threat. To protect yourself from QR code fraud, follow these simple precautions:
- Inspect the QR code before scanning – If you notice a sticker placed over the original QR code, do not scan it.
- Preview the URL before opening the link – If the URL looks suspicious or does not match the expected destination, avoid clicking it.
- Be cautious with QR codes in emails or SMS messages, especially from unknown sources.
- Use a secure QR code scanner – Some apps can detect malicious links before opening them.
- Check for HTTPS and the domain name – A secure website should begin with “https://”.
- Beware of QR codes promising rewards or special offers – Scammers often use these as bait.
- Keep your phone software up to date – This helps reduce the risk of malware attacks.
By taking just a few seconds to verify the source of a QR code before scanning, you can effectively prevent yourself from falling victim to these scams.
Source https://hackread.com/rise-of-qr-phishing-how-scammers-exploit-qr-codes/
