Avoiding QR Code Scams
Cyber Alert: How to Spot and Avoid QR Code Scams: Tips to Keep Your Data Safe
Picture this: a Bluetooth speaker you didn’t order arrives at your door. It’s addressed to you, but no sender information is visible. Inside, you find a QR code, encouraging you to scan it for more information about your “gift.” But as soon as you do, hackers gain access to your device, steal your bank details, drain your account, and sell your personal data on the dark web. This is one of the newest QR code scams.
This increasingly common scam, known as “brushing,” uses the curiosity sparked by an unexpected gift to lead you into a trap. QR code scams are on the rise, so let’s dive into how they work, different scam types, and how to protect yourself and your data.
What Are QR Codes?
QR (Quick Response) codes are digital tools that let you access a website or content by scanning an image with your smartphone, instead of typing in a web address. These codes are popular for everything from restaurant menus to airport boarding passes, making it simple to access information with just a scan.
Similar to traditional barcodes, QR codes contain data, but instead of black bars, they use square pixels on a white background. Your phone’s camera decodes the data, which often includes links, coupons, payment portals, or downloadable content.
Originally developed in the 1990s for inventory tracking, QR codes have surged in popularity due to their convenience and adaptability. Businesses use them to provide customers with quick access to information, promotions, and interactive experiences. Unfortunately, scammers are just as interested because QR codes can be disguised and tampered with to redirect users to phishing websites. This tactic, often called “quishing,” has become a new favorite for cybercriminals.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has warned consumers to be on high alert for QR code scams, which are becoming more prevalent every day. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself.
How QR Code Scams Work
Many scams involve links that take you to fake websites to steal your information. QR code scams operate similarly, but they’re harder to detect because people don’t always examine where a QR code takes them. Scammers know this and use it to trick people into revealing personal data or downloading malicious software. Here are some of the most common ways QR code scams operate:
- Phishing with QR Codes
Phishing is a tactic where scammers impersonate trusted entities, like banks or familiar brands, to obtain personal information. Phishing scams using QR codes are particularly dangerous because the QR code can bypass typical email security filters that might otherwise flag suspicious links. By embedding a harmful URL in a QR code, scammers trick you into scanning, which redirects you to a malicious site disguised as a legitimate one. These fake sites can look identical to the original ones, and hackers use them to steal your credentials, banking information, or other sensitive data. - Public QR Code Tampering
Scammers may also tamper with QR codes that are in public places, such as parking meters, kiosks, or transit ticket machines. By placing a fraudulent QR code sticker over a legitimate one, they trick users into scanning a code that sends them to a dangerous site or requests payment information. Imagine paying for parking and scanning a code that, instead of directing you to the city’s payment site, takes you to a fake page designed to harvest your credit card details. - Fake Delivery Notifications
This scam is also becoming more popular, given the rise of online shopping. Scammers send you a text about a “missed delivery” that includes a QR code to “reschedule” it. Once you scan the code, you’re redirected to a page asking for personal information or payment details, ostensibly to verify your identity. Instead, they’re stealing your data. - Suspicious Wi-Fi QR Codes
Some businesses, like cafes or hotels, offer QR codes for easy Wi-Fi access. Scammers exploit this by creating fake Wi-Fi QR codes in public places. When you connect to these Wi-Fi networks, scammers can monitor your activity, intercept passwords, and even access sensitive data from your device. - Account Issue Notifications
You may receive an email or text message claiming there’s a problem with one of your accounts. The scammer provides a QR code that supposedly takes you to your account page to verify your information. But instead, you’re directed to a fake site where the scammer gathers your login details.
Recognizing Common QR Code Scam Techniques
These QR scams typically rely on urgency, curiosity, or fear to prompt you to act quickly. Scammers hope that if they convince you to act fast, you’ll avoid thinking too deeply about what you’re doing. Here’s how they manipulate these emotions:
- Urgency and Pressure: They’ll tell you that you need to act “now” to avoid penalties or missed deliveries.
- Curiosity: They know people may scan out of interest, especially if they’ve sent an unexpected package.
- Fear: Messages about “suspicious activity” on your account may make you feel pressured to click without verifying the source.
Most legitimate companies won’t request sensitive information, like your social security number or password, directly through a QR code. If something feels suspicious, take a moment to verify.
Practical Tips to Avoid QR Code Scams
Here are some practical steps to help you stay safe from QR code scams:
- Stick to Verified Sources
Avoid scanning random QR codes, especially those posted in public places or received from unknown contacts. Stick to QR codes you receive from reliable sources, like the official website of a business. - Preview the Link Before Opening
Many QR scanner apps now offer a feature that allows you to preview the destination link before opening it. Check for suspicious URLs or strange characters. Be especially cautious if the URL contains misspellings or unusual formats. - Update Your Device and Apps Regularly
Software updates often include security patches to protect against new vulnerabilities. Keep your device and any QR scanning apps up to date to stay protected from the latest threats. - Use a Secure QR Scanner
Certain QR scanning apps come with built-in security features that detect malicious links. If your email security misses a scam, the QR scanner might catch it, adding a layer of safety. - Verify with the Business Directly
If you receive a QR code through text or email claiming to be from a business, verify it. Visit their official website or call their customer service to confirm the message’s authenticity. - Exercise Caution with Wi-Fi QR Codes
Only use QR codes for Wi-Fi access from trusted establishments. Scammers may place fake Wi-Fi codes in public places to intercept your personal information once you’re connected. - Report Suspicious QR Codes
If you encounter a suspicious QR code, report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center or the company that the scammer was pretending to represent. Your report can help prevent future scams.
Additional QR Scams to Watch For
Here are a few more examples of QR code scams to be aware of:
- Fake Charity Appeals
Scammers create QR codes for fake charities, often using current events or natural disasters to appeal for donations. Before donating, verify the charity’s legitimacy through a reliable site, like Charity Navigator or GuideStar. - Social Media Contest Scams
Scammers post fake QR codes on social media, claiming they link to entry forms for contests, giveaways, or prize draws. These links often direct you to sites that ask for sensitive information or prompt you to download malware. - Investment or Financial Advice Scams
Scammers may also distribute QR codes linking to fake investment opportunities or “exclusive” financial advice. Often, these scams promise high returns and request personal or financial details. Only engage with financial content from verified, reputable sources.
Staying Safe: QR Codes and Future Trends
QR codes have become a significant part of modern convenience, and their popularity shows no sign of waning. Unfortunately, cybercriminals continue to exploit this trend, so staying informed about the risks is essential. Use caution with any QR code that appears in an unexpected place or arrives via unsolicited messages.
As long as you approach QR codes with a cautious mindset, you’ll reduce your risk of falling victim to these scams. Remember to think before you scan, verify the source, and follow security best practices to keep your personal information secure.
Contact Huff Insurance for Peace of Mind
Protecting your personal data is more important than ever. At Huff Insurance, we understand that security goes beyond QR code scams. As an independent insurance agency, we offer personalized guidance and a wide range of coverage options tailored to your needs. Our experienced team can help you understand your risks and find the right policies to protect what matters most—your assets, your data, and your peace of mind. Contact Huff Insurance today to learn how we can provide you with trusted advice and comprehensive cyber coverage options for a more secure future.