NEW

10 AI Tools You Need in Your Office For Productivity

In today’s fast-moving world, everyone wants to work wiser, not harder. The involvement of AI tools will definitely help you do just that. They can make your work easier and faster. Let’s explore some AI tools that can boost productivity in your office.What Are AI...

What is Blockchain Technology and How Does it Work?

Blockchain technology is changing the world. It is a system designed to keep records safe and secure. But how does it work? Let’s find out more about this amazing technology.What is Blockchain?Blockchain is some kind of digital ledger. In it, information is stored in...

Ultimate Guide to Encryption Methods

Encryption is a method of securing information. It converts readable data into secret code. Only the right key can decode it. This guide will help you understand different encryption methods.What is Encryption?Encryption is like a secret language. It converts regular...

How is Your Cyber Hygiene? Essential Tips For 2025

Cyber hygiene is super important. It’s like brushing your teeth but for your online life. Good cyber habits help keep you safe from hackers on the internet. Let’s check some easy ways to stay safe online in 2025. What is Cyber Hygiene?Cyber hygiene means the care you...

10 Tips For a Seamless Smart Home Experience

Smart homes make life easier. But setting one up can be tricky. Here’s how to make a smooth smart home system.What is a Smart Home?A smart home uses technology to control many parts of life. This includes turning lights on and off and unlocking doors. You can control...

What is Threat Exposure Management (TEM)?

Threat Exposure Management (TEM) is an important cybersecurity tool. It helps organizations find and fix weak spots in their digital systems. TEM outsmarts hackers before they break into your network.Importance of TEMCyber attacks keep getting worse. Hackers always...

How Password Managers Protect Your Accounts

Passwords unlock our digital lives. We use them for email, bank accounts, and more. Remembering all these passwords is hard. Password managers help us keep our accounts safe and make our lives easier.What is a Password Manager?A password manager keeps all your...

Innovative Solutions to IoT Device Security

The Internet of Things is growing day by day. More devices are connecting to the internet. And with that growth comes new security risks.Let’s look at some new ways to keep your IoT devices safe.What are the security risks for IoT devices?IoT devices are vulnerable to...

5 New Trends from a Study on the State of AI at Work

The pace of technological advancement is accelerating. This is not news to anyone wading through the ChatGPT craze. Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this revolution. We are swiftly seeing companies adopting AI solutions. Even more rapidly are...

Guide to Smart Windows 11 Settings to Boost Your Productivity

The newest Windows OS is fast gaining ground on Windows 10. As of August 2024, Windows 11 had over 31% of the Windows market share. That is bound to increase fast as Windows 10 retires in 2025.Already upgraded to the new operating system or planning to soon? Then,...

QR codes are everywhere these days. You can find them on restaurant menus, flyers, and posters. They’re used both offline and online. QR codes are convenient and easy to use. You just scan them with your smartphone camera. You’re then directed to a link, a coupon, a video, or some other online content.

With the rise in popularity of QR codes comes an unfortunate dark side. Cybercriminals are exploiting this technology for nefarious purposes. Scammers create fake QR codes. They can steal your personal information. They can also infect your device with malware or trick you into paying money.

It’s crucial to exercise caution when scanning QR codes. This emerging scam highlights the potential dangers lurking behind those seemingly innocent squares.

QR Code scan
Image source: Adobe Stock

The QR Code Resurgence

QR codes were originally designed for tracking parts in the automotive industry. They have experienced a renaissance in recent years. As a result, they’re used as a form of marketing today.

They offer the convenience of instant access to information. You simply scan a code. They’ve become an integral part of various industries, including retail and hospitality.

Unfortunately, cybercriminals are quick to adapt. A new phishing scam has emerged, exploiting the trust we place in QR codes.

How the Scam Works

The scammer prints out a fake QR code. They place it over a legitimate one. For example, they might stick it on a poster that advertises a product discount or a movie.

You come along and scan the fake QR code, thinking it’s legitimate. The fake code may direct you to a phishing website. These sites may ask you to enter sensitive data. Such as your credit card details, login credentials, or other
personal information.

Or scanning the QR code may prompt you to download a malicious app. One that contains malware that can do one or more of the following:

  • Spy on your activity
  • Access your copy/paste history
  • Access your contacts
  • Lock your device until you pay a ransom

The code could also direct you to a payment page. A page that charges you a fee for something supposedly free.

Here are some tactics to watch out for.

Malicious Codes Concealed

Cybercriminals tamper with legitimate QR codes. They often add a fake QR code sticker over a real one. They embed malicious content or redirect users to fraudulent websites.

Fake Promotions and Contests

Scammers often use QR codes to lure users into fake promotions or contests. When users scan the code, it may direct them to a counterfeit website. The website may prompt them to provide personal information. This can lead to potential identity theft or financial fraud.

Malware Distribution

Some malicious QR codes start downloads of malware onto the user’s device. This can result in compromised security. Including unauthorized access to personal data and potential damage to the device’s functionality.

Stay Vigilant: Tips for Safe QR Code Scanning

Verify the Source

Be cautious when scanning QR codes from unknown or untrusted sources. Verify the legitimacy of the code and its source. This is especially true if it prompts you to enter personal information.

Use a QR Code Scanner App

Consider using a dedicated QR code scanner app. Use that rather than the default camera app on your device. Some third-party apps provide extra security features. Such as code analysis and website reputation checks.

Inspect the URL Before Clicking

Before visiting a website prompted by a QR code, review the URL. Ensure it matches the legitimate website of the organization it claims to represent.

Avoid Scanning Suspicious Codes

Trust your instincts. If a QR code looks suspicious, refrain from scanning it. Scammers often rely on users’ curiosity. Be careful when scanning QR codes that you see in public places. Don’t scan them if they look suspicious, damaged, or tampered with. Exercising caution is paramount.

Update Your Device and Apps

Keep your device’s operating system and QR code scanning apps up to date. Regular updates often include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.

Be Wary of Websites Accessed via QR Code

Don’t enter any personal information on a website that you accessed through a QR code. This includes things like your address, credit card details, login information, etc.

Don’t pay any money or make any donations through a QR code. Only use trusted and secure payment methods.

Contact Us About Phishing Resistant Security Solutions

QR codes can be useful and fun. But they can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. Always scan them with caution. Protect yourself from scammers who want to take advantage of your curiosity.

This scam falls under the umbrella of phishing. Phishing is one of the most dangerous modern risks for individuals and organizations. If you need help ensuring your devices are phishing resistant, just let us know.

Contact us today to learn more.


Featured Image Credit

This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.