QR codes, those black and white little squares that make accessing information a breeze, have become a staple in our daily lives. From scanning restaurant menus to paying for parking, they offer convenience at our fingertips. However, scammers have found ways to exploit this technology, leading to a rise in QR code scams, also known as “Quishing”.
What is Quishing?
Quishing involves scammers covertly replacing official QR codes with fake ones in places you normally see, such as restaurants, parking meters, and more. These fake codes can lead you to malicious websites designed to steal your personal information or money.
Common Quishing Tactics
With QR codes so prevalent in our lives, it’s important to be aware of common quishing tactics. In addition to scammers replacing official QR codes with fake ones at restaurants, parking meters, and other public places, scammers might also send QR codes via text or email, pretending to be from a delivery company or another trusted source. Additionally, scammers may send QR codes asking you to confirm your information due to supposed “suspicious activity”. If a victim responds by scanning the QR code, they will be taken to phishing sites or to download malware.
How to Protect Yourself
Learn how to spot fraud to stay defensive against scammer tactics.
- Inspect the QR Code: Before scanning, look for signs of tampering, unusual colors, or misspellings. These can be indicators of a fake code.
- Avoid Suspicious Codes: If you notice any of the above, it’s best to avoid scanning the code.
- Be Wary of Unknown Sources: Only scan QR codes from trusted sources. Be cautious of codes sent from unknown contacts. If unsure, visit the company’s official website or social media to scan the QR code directly from them.
- Payment Requests: Official sectors like Social Security will never request payment via QR code. If you receive such a request, it’s likely a scam.
- Pressure Tactics: Scammers often apply pressure tactics to make you act immediately. Take your time and verify the source before proceeding.
Additional Safety Measures
Implement these additional good cyber hygiene practices to keep yourself digitally protected.
- Keep Your Phone Software Up to Date: Regular updates can protect your device from vulnerabilities that scammers might exploit.
- Use Strong Passwords & Multifactor Authentication: These security measures add an extra layer of protection to your accounts.
By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can enjoy the convenience of QR codes without falling victim to scams. Scan safe and secure!
