QR codes can be found everywhere from posters and menus to flyers and websites - both online and off. Using them is easy and convenient: simply scan them with your smartphone camera to be taken directly to an online link, coupon, video or other content.

QR codes have an unsavory side. Cybercriminals use this technology for malicious use; scammers make bogus QR codes that steal personal data or trick people into buying products or infect them with malware.

As always when scanning QR codes, be careful. This scam demonstrates the dangers hidden behind seemingly innocuous squares.

The QR Code Resurgence

Information can be easily accessed instantly when scanning a barcode; retail and hospitality industries have taken full advantage of them.

Cybercriminals are always quick to adapt. Recently, a QR code has been employed in an attempt to gain our trust through phishing scams.

Scam: How it Works

Fraudsters print fake QR codes that they then place over real ones; for instance, on posters advertising movies or products offering discounted pricing.

Scan the fake code thinking it's legitimate and you could end up at a website with fraudulent practices - potentially one that demands sensitive data such as login credentials, credit card information or any other sensitive details about yourself.

Scanning QR codes is another effective way of downloading malicious applications with malware, capable of carrying out any or all of these actions:

Spy on Your Activity

You can track all your past copy/paste activities using the History option in Microsoft Office Excel.

Contacts - Access them I can lock my device until a ransom payment has been made, which allows for complete privacy of my information and device.

Your code could direct you to a payment site where a fee may be required in order to access something that should have been free.

Be wary of these tactics.

Malicious Codes Hiding

Cybercriminals use fraudulent QR codes to embed malicious content or redirect users to fraudulent websites.

Scammers use QR codes to entice users into participating in fake contests or promotions with false promises of prizes or discounts, usually directed towards a fake website that asks users for personal data they could potentially use against them and which can lead to identity theft or financial fraud.

Malware Distribution

Some malicious QR codes contain viruses which download malware onto a device and compromise its security, leading to unauthorized access of personal information and possibly even damage of the device itself.

Avoid unsafe QR code scanning by carefully considering where and from whom you source them from

Make sure they come from trustworthy or recognizable sources, and always verify if a code requires personal data from users. This is particularly important if they ask for sensitive data like social security numbers.

Consider Utilizing QR Code Scanner Apps

Consider installing an app designed specifically to scan QR codes; you can use it instead of the default camera on your device, and third-party apps may provide extra security features such as code analysis or website reputation checks.

Before clicking, verify the URL is equivalent to that claimed by QR codes and match with their official website of their intended organization.

Do Not Scan Suspicious Codes Trust your instincts. Do not scan a QR-code that appears suspicious as scammers exploit users' curiosity by exploiting public places to target victims with dangerous scams. Be mindful when scanning QR codes in public spaces - do not scan damaged or suspicious codes without exercising due caution.

Update your device and apps Keep your operating system and QR code scanner updated regularly, as this includes security patches to address any known vulnerabilities.

Be wary of websites you access via QR code

Do not enter any personal details onto any site accessible via QR codes. This includes credit card data, login credentials and address.

Avoid paying money or making donations using QR codes; only trust safe and reliable payment methods such as checks.

Phishing Resistant Security Solutions

QR codes can be both entertaining and useful; however, their misuse can also be potentially hazardous. Be wary of scammers looking to take advantage of your curiosity with QR codes! Scan them carefully! Scammers could try their luck at taking advantage of you.

Phishing is one of the biggest threats for individuals and companies alike today; we can assist if you need assistance protecting devices against it.

Reach out to us now to gain more insight: 📞 (404) 932-5940 or 📩info@nuwaveitc.com