QR codes: Useful, but also a risk? How to protect yourself!

QR codes are everywhere these days! Whether you’re looking at a menu in a restaurant, paying quickly in a store or visiting a website, a simple scan with your smartphone and you’re there. But did you know that cybercriminals can also misuse this technology? 😱

In this blog we dive into the world of QR codes, the risks associated with them and how you can protect yourself from them.

SIM Swapping and Man-in-the-Middle Attacks Rise Explosively

📌 What is a QR code anyway?

A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional bar code that you can scan with your phone. These codes can include:

✔️ Web addresses (think payment pages or information pages)
✔️ Contact information (such as a vCard with name and phone number)
✔️ Calendar appointments (which you can add directly to your calendar)
✔️ Discount codes (for exclusive deals and promotions)
✔️ Payment information (for quick transactions)

QR codes make life easier, but they also carry risks. And you need to be alert to that! 🚨

⚠️ The dangers of QR codes

Criminals have devised clever ways to misuse QR codes. Two common methods are:

🔴 Qishing (QR Code Phishing)
👉 This is a form of phishing where a fraudulent QR code directs you to a fake website. Here hackers can steal your login credentials, bank information or other personal data.

🔴 Attagging (QR Code Manipulation).
👉 This happens when an attacker pastes a malicious QR code over a legitimate code. Think of a sticker on a parking meter or payment kiosk, leading you to a rogue website undetected.

🛡️ How do you securely scan a QR code?

Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself from abuse. Here are 5 essential tips:

✔️ Always check the source
→ Only scan QR codes from trusted parties. Is the code on a random pole or wall? Be extra careful!

✔️ Watch for suspicious URLs
→ Are you redirected to an unfamiliar or strange-looking website after scanning? If so, do not enter any personal information!

✔️ Use a secure QR scanner
→ Many smartphones today display the URL before you open a website. Check that the address is correct before clicking on.

✔️ Beware of pasted QR codes
→ Are there stickers over them or does the code appear to have been altered? If so, it may be an attempted scam!

✔️ Avoid QR codes in suspicious emails
→ Do you get an email with a QR code from an unknown sender? Chances are it’s a phishing attempt.

🔒 Conclusion: QR codes? Handy, but stay vigilant!

QR codes make our lives easier, but also carry risks. By paying close attention to where you scan them and what data you enter, you can avoid becoming a victim of fraud.

Stay smart, scan securely and protect your data! 🚀🔐

About the author

My name is Alta Martes, a specialist in Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, with a focus on modern workplace management, cloud security and identity & access management. With years of experience, I help organizations optimize their IT infrastructure and create a secure, efficient digital workplace.

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