Scan a QR code and you can get information such as recipes, menus, website links and links to download apps, coupons and more. Quick Response (QR) codes were created to track automotive parts, but they’re everywhere now.
There are many third-party QR scanning apps, but you don’t even need one. Your iOS or Android phone’s camera can scan QR codes without the need for any additional software. Tap or click here for our detailed instructions.
While convenient and entertaining, scanning a QR code can expose you to malware and scams. Crooks use QR codes to steal credit card details and other sensitive information. Here’s what you need to know.
Here’s the backstory
Cybersecurity researchers at HP have been following a Chinese-language phishing campaign distributed through Office documents sent through email. The documents contain no malicious code — just some text and a QR code.
The senders pose as the Chinese Ministry of Finance and similar institutions, informing recipients they are entitled to a government grant. Of course, they’re advised to act quickly (a common tactic wielded by many scammers).
The document contains bits of information to make it seem more legitimate, such as copyrights and security notices. Recipients are told to scan the QR code using WeChat, a popular social media app that…
