QR Code Phishing... What is it?

QR Code Phishing… What is it?

Posted 20 Oct at 8:20 pm in Productivity by Dan McNamara

What is QR Code Phishing?

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.

Understanding QR Code Phishing

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.

How it Works

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).

Bait and Deception: Cybercriminals design QR codes to appear harmless or enticing. They often use techniques that mimic trusted organizations, enticing users to scan the code.
Data Theft: Once the QR code is scanned, it can lead to a malicious website that requests personal information. This data is then exploited for fraudulent activities.
Malware Installation: In some cases, scanning a malicious QR code can lead to the automatic download and installation of malware on your device.

malicious QR code

Protecting Yourself Against QR Code Phishing

Verify the Source: Before scanning any QR code, ensure that it comes from a trusted and reliable source. Be cautious when scanning codes from unknown or suspicious origins.
Inspect the URL: If the QR code leads to a website, carefully examine the URL to check for irregularities or misspellings. Cybercriminals often create deceptive websites with subtle differences from the legitimate ones. The URL will appear underneath the code, with a small preview of the address.
Don’t Share Sensitive Information: Avoid providing sensitive information like passwords, credit card details, or social security numbers through QR code links. Again, unless it is a verified or reliable source, proceed with caution.
Keep Your Software Updated: As always, regularly update your device’s operating system and security software to protect against vulnerabilities that cybercriminals may exploit.

Reporting Suspected Phishing Attempts

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: Final Remarks

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.

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QR Code Phishing… What is it?