Essential Tips for Safe QR Code Scanning

Introduction

Recently, QR codes have become an important component of our daily lives. You can see them everywhere. QR codes serve as restaurant menus, provide additional details on product packages and much more. They ensure smooth access to any kind of information. What could be better, right? Indeed, QR codes have hidden dangers that everyone should know about. From personal details stealing to phishing attacks, QR codes can harm absolutely anyone. So what kind of threats are there, and how can you avoid them?

This article delves into QR code security and gives you the necessary knowledge to use them safely. We will learn how these barcodes work, where you can see them, and, most importantly, how to avoid falling victim to scams.

So, let’s go!

What are QR codes and Where They Can Be Used

QR codes are 2d barcodes that contain information. In comparison to traditional barcodes, QR codes are able to hold much more data. By data, we can understand a website link, additional product information, text messages, and much more. How are we accessing that information? Certain scanners or smartphone cameras can simply scan that code and have access to the encoded information.

Now, let’s understand where we can see QR codes! I believe various companies of any industry can create QR code to stand out. Here are some examples:

• Online payments: to ensure cashless transactions.
• Flyers, posters, and business cards: to direct customers to products or additional information.
• Product packaging: to give additional information about product date of expiration, ingredients and much more.
• Museums and historical sights: to provide audio guides and details about exhibits.

These are just a few popular examples, but actually, the usage of QR codes is more widespread than you think.

How QR Code Scammers Trick You

Phishing Attack

Phishing attacks are among the most popular cyber crimes today. Attackers try to obtain personal information such as passwords, usernames, and more. QR codes can direct people to fake web pages that look like originals. These websites often look like bank pages or social media platforms. What is the threat of someone having access to this sensitive information? This can lead to identity theft or financial loss. The point is to always remember all threats possible.

Data Stealing

Not every QR code scammer tries to steal login credentials. Some scammers just need phone numbers or emails. Emails can be used in email campaigns, and phone numbers can be sold to third-party organizations. So, this kind of sensitive data can seem unimportant, but one should actually be wary of QR codes that ask for that.

Overlay Scam

Scammers have created a QR code overlay tactic. They can print their fake QR sticker and place it on existing codes. This decreases the suspect if placed on a high authority poster or product. This way, they direct users to fraudulent websites and information. So, everyone should be cautious and avoid scanning QR codes in unexpected locations or suspicious items.

Tips to Stay Safe

There are many more threats than the ones mentioned above. So, how can you stay safe with those tricky tactics, and what can you do in this situation?

Avoid QR code payments

The simplicity of paying with a QR code can seem very tempting. There are a number of regions that use this practice, and it seems harmless. It is important to acknowledge that QR code payment security can vary from place to place. While credit or debit card payments have their fraud protection, QR codes mainly don’t. And this is the main problem with these payments. So, if you want to avoid problems be sure you trust the source and the recipient. Some seconds spent to verify the authority of the payment can really help to escape fraud.

Scan only trustful QR codes

Even if you’re not making a payment, be sure you trust the QR source. Don’t scan QR codes of low-authority websites, or unknown businesses. For instance, it’s not advisable to scan barcodes on random posters from the street or unknown emails. Even if you’re feeling a little bit off, and see a tiny red flag, it’s better not to scan, to protect your personal information.

Turn on multi-factor authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is something that should be integrated everywhere. Even with QR codes MFA can add a layer of security. How does this work? For instance, even if you already gave your credentials, with MFA no one can enter your social media platforms, or financial accounts (or at least entering will be really difficult). This may seem a little step, indeed, it’s a really important one to avoid scams.

Never log in after a QR code scan

QR codes are created to improve the access to information or websites. If created right, barcodes should directly link you to the content, and not ask to log in. When you’re asked for banking or email accounts credentials, don’t enter them. Most possibly it is a phishing attemp, that will steal your sensitive information. Better be safe than sorry!

Always check the URL

The habit of checking a URL, before clicking on it can be a very healthy one! It concerns not only websites, but QR codes as well. Always enter addresses that are secure (starting with “https://”). Taking a few seconds to check the URL can avoid further problems. If you’re suspicions, just don’t click.

Conclusion

So, now, you’re armed with the knowledge, to avoid any kind of phishing attempts, scams or data stealing. The most important part is to remember and be cautious every time you’re scanning a QR code. Surely, QR codes are not something negative, but they should be used wisely, like something else we see on the Web.

Always use your common sense and be aware of modern threats, to avoid headaches and financial loss. QR codes are just links, and they give access to various content. But we already know that links can be dangerous. So, remember this fact and stay safe by using security approach.