As a result of Covid-19, many things in our world changed. Some small, some large, some significant, some not so much. For the most part, life as usual has resumed and the changes we saw have since been reverted. One of the things that stayed the same, is the way we interact with others and with the world around us. At restaurants, since Covid, it is not uncommon to see a QR code sitting at a table; an implementation used to, at the time, reduce the interaction time between servers and their tables. While QR codes have been happily adopted as common practice in our world but, like all tech, they bring their fair share of problems. QR Code phishing is becoming more pertinent and something many individuals are totally unaware of as a possibility.
QR Code phishing involves the use of malicious QR codes that, when scanned, lead unsuspecting individuals to fraudulent websites or prompt them to download harmful applications. These codes can be found in a variety of places, from printed materials to online advertisements. Scanning a compromised QR code can expose you to various risks, including identity theft, data breaches, and financial loss.
The concerning trend in cybercrime is on the rise, with AT&T warning about using malicious QR codes in phishing attempts.
QR Code phishing involves the use of malicious QR codes that, when scanned, lead unsuspecting individuals to fraudulent websites or prompt them to download harmful applications. These codes can be found in a variety of places, from printed materials to online advertisements. Scanning a compromised QR code can expose you to various risks, including identity theft, data breaches, and financial loss.
From parking meter payments to cryptocurrency wallets and more, QR phishing scams are popping up everywhere. If you receive a QR code via email, you should always be on alert!
Recently, some users received an email from Microsoft with an unusual attachment – a PDF file containing a QR code and an urgent message instructing them to set up multi-factor authentication (MFA).
If you encounter a QR code that appears to be part of a phishing attempt, report it to the the organization it pretends to represent. Your proactivity can help prevent others from falling victim to the same scam.
QR Code phishing is a real threat in today’s world. Sadly, we have to be cautious in all of our interactions with technology, regardless of who we think we are working with. By understanding how it works and taking proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these malicious attacks. Remember to scan QR codes from trusted sources, use secure QR code scanning apps, and remain cautious when providing personal information online. Stay secure and protect your data from QR Code phishing.
You and your employees should be up to date on all of the latest phishing scams. Could you and your team use a refresh? Want to learn how Proper Sky is protecting SMBs from cybercrime like modern phishing attacks? Sign up for our free webinar today: Ending the Email Nightmare – Security Strategies to Fortify Your Inbox.
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