QR CODE WARNING: QR Code Phishing is Still on the Rise
How do QR Codes Work?
QR code stands for “Quick-response Code” and is machine-readable code usually consisting of a matrix of black and white squares (they also come in other colors). These squares can be easily created with QR generators, and they’re used to encode information such as website URLs, email contact information, or other types of data. By pointing your smartphone’s camera at a QR code, you can order food at a restaurant, pay for parking, and utilize it for many other things.
What is the Danger?
QR codes can be difficult to interpret, which makes it easier for threat actors to encode information that could be malicious or cause harm. For example, a QR code could send you to a malicious website that attempts to harvest your personal information, like passwords or credit card numbers, or perhaps even try to install malware on your device.
The QR code by itself is not the threat; however, the information or action it triggers can be.
Since QR codes don’t use a text-based link, they can slip past email security filters to target humans directly.
How to Avoid QR Code Scams
There are several things that you can do to help protect your customers and yourself from QR code scams:
Once you scan a QR code, check the URL to make sure it is the intended site and looks authentic.
Practice caution when entering login, personal, or financial information from a site navigated to from a QR code.
If scanning a physical QR code, ensure the code has not been tampered with, such as with a sticker placed on top of the original code.
Do not download an app from a QR code. Use your phone's app store for downloading apps.
If you receive an email stating a payment failed from a company you recently made a purchase with and the company states you can only complete the payment through a QR code, call the company to verify. Locate the company’s phone number through a trusted site.
Do not download a QR code scanner app. This increases your risk of downloading malware. Most phones have a built-in scanner through the camera app.
If you receive a QR code that you believe is from someone you know, reach out to them to confirm.
Avoid making payments through a site navigated to from a QR code. Instead, manually enter a known and trusted URL to complete the payment.
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