Beware of QR Code Scams: Shield Yourself from Potential Threats

While these codes enhance daily convenience, there are potential risks associated with their use.  

With the increasing integration of QR codes into various marketing strategies, hackers have discovered additional avenues to breach mobile devices and systems. Understanding how to safeguard yourself when using QR codes is crucial, as it can prevent potential long-term damage to your sensitive information.

Key Considerations When Utilizing QR Codes

Many scammers have been identified substituting legitimate QR codes with fraudulent ones, leading scanners to a compromised file or link. This ultimately grants them unauthorized access to the mobile phones or any other device used during the scanning process. Scammers can also steal any information that may have been entered before or after the scanning process.  

Check Out QR Codes Before Scanning

Fraudsters have been caught stealing both business and personal information by strategically placing multiple QR codes in locations with deceptive names or titles, manipulating people to scan them. Additionally, they have also been seen placing their counterfeit codes on top of the original, creating duplicates that are almost identical to the original set.  

After a person scans the barcode, they are usually directed to a convincingly authentic website or link, where they might be asked/requested to input business details, bank account information, card numbers, and other sensitive data that could pose potential risks to one's information.  

Prior to scanning any barcode, it is crucial to inspect whether anything is hidden beneath the code's sticker, verify the URL code beforehand, and exercise caution, especially in a restaurant setting—checking the actual menu before scanning the QR-coded version. In instances where a physical menu is unavailable, researching it online ensures your safety.

Examine Barcodes For Spelling Errors When Reviewing Their URLs

A notable indicator of a counterfeit QR code is the presence of misspellings in the associated link. QR codes typically display the link to the website before opening as you scan them. If, upon opening, the link does not automatically redirect you to the intended website, look at the link for legitimacy. If you see any misspelled words or suspicious-looking elements, be very cautious, as they may indicate a potential fake. Pay attention to switched letters as well, do not open any file if you notice this, it can potentially lead you to a corrupted site.  

Exercise Caution and Refrain From Opening Any QR Codes Sent To Your IMessage Or Email Account Until You Have Verified Their Authenticity

It's common for online platforms you subscribe to, follow, or buy from to send you barcodes for accessing great coupons, new releases, news articles, or other relevant information you would like to have access to. Despite its prevalence, exercise caution regarding the sources sending you barcodes or links.  

Counterfeit codes may redirect you to a fraudulent website that mimics the appearance of your favorite restaurant menu, online shopping store, music link, or other content you may typically enjoy. These may be delivered to your iMessage or email, so be vigilant when receiving them. It's essential to verify their legitimacy, as appearances can be deceiving.

Be Cautious When Downloading Anything Prompted By A QR Code

In today's world, there's an app for nearly every aspect of life whether it be for  entertainment purposes, shopping, new music, news, or any other interest, you can readily find and download it to your devices. However, exercising caution is crucial, especially when considering downloads through QR codes that may be unfamiliar.  

Whether it's music or a regular app, double-check to ensure you're downloading from a reliable and trustworthy source. Downloads can be a hotspot for scammers looking to deceive unsuspecting users. Online shopping, in particular, is susceptible to scams, so always verify the credibility of the site before proceeding with a purchase.

Take Advantage of Multi-factor Authentication Systems

While it's tempting to get carried away with purchases or downloads, prioritizing security measures is crucial for data safety. Multi-factor authentication systems are a valuable asset here for you, safeguarding information from potential threats. These authentication systems play a crucial role in preventing unauthorized access by hackers or scammers to your private devices or accounts, even if they have already obtained your passwords.

Through multi-factor authentication apps, they necessitate specific information via a second route, like a text code sent to your phone number or a backup email address that you alone can link. Additionally, they may prompt you with specific questions that you've set up, which hackers may not be familiar with.