Quick Response codes (QR codes) are all around us. From restaurant menus to advertisements to sporting events, codes are a popular way to access a specific document or website quickly.
While QR codes have been around since 1994, they became more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, fueled by the need for contactless, touch-free communication.
Nearly anyone can create a QR code, and the uses are almost endless.
Avoid QR Code Scams
While QR codes are quite useful, there are also risks involved. Whenever something becomes popular, cybercriminals look for ways to exploit users and steal their information.
Thieves are using QR codes to conduct “QRishing” scams which are similar to phishing scams. Scammers create their own QR codes, and when a user scans the code, it directs them to a website where they are tricked into entering payment information, user names, passwords and other personal details. Scammers can place QR codes anywhere: in physical locations or online on websites and email.
Cybercriminals can swap out a legitimate QR code for a malicious one. This can lead to malware being installed on your smartphone. Once the malware has been installed, cybercriminals can gain access to your phone and steal your personal information which can result in financial fraud, data theft, identity theft and account takeovers.
Tips To Protect Yourself
The QR codes themselves are not dangerous; it is where the QR code directs you than can be problematic.
- Don’t scan QR codes sent…
