QR Code Scams: Be Cautious and Protect Your Personal Information
The Rise of QR Code Use
These days, it’s easy for anyone to take out their phones and scan a QR Code to see a food menu or to pay a bill. However, QR Codes can also make it easy for scammers to access your personal information.
The Dangers of QR Codes
According to a recent survey, 83% of people used a QR Code for a financial transaction in the past three months. "QR Codes can be extremely dangerous, can end up being financial loss, personal information theft, any kind of attack related to them," said Iskander Sanchez-Rola with Gen Digital, a cybersecurity software company.
Spot the Red Flags
To avoid falling victim to QR Code scams, Sanchez-Rola advises being vigilant of suspicious behavior, such as:
- Fake code covering up the real code, like a sticker
- Untrusted sources asking for personal information
- QR Codes that prompt you to share information to use their service, including your phone number or email address
- URLs that take you to suspicious websites
- Apps that prompt you to download and install software
Protect Yourself
To avoid QR Code scams, Sanchez-Rola recommends:
- Relying on trusted sources
- Using debit or credit cards instead of scanning codes
- Verifying URLs and apps before downloading
- Using a free app like Genie, which analyzes QR Codes, text messages, website, or social posts to see if it’s a scam
- Being cautious when scanning QR Codes that prompt you to share information
Conclusion
QR Codes can be convenient, but they can also be a breeding ground for scams. By being aware of the risks and taking steps to protect yourself, you can stay safe online. Remember to always verify sources, be cautious of suspicious behavior, and use trusted apps and services.
FAQs
Q: What is a QR Code?
A: A QR Code is a type of barcode that can be scanned using a smartphone, often used for payment, menu access, or other purposes.
Q: How do I know if a QR Code is suspicious?
A: Look for signs of tampering, such as stickers covering the real code, or URLs that take you to suspicious websites.
Q: What can I do if I think I’m a victim of an identity crime?
A: Contact the ID Theft Center at 888-400-5530 or visit their website by clicking here.
Q: Is there a free app to help me detect QR Code scams?
A: Yes, Genie is a free app that analyzes QR Codes, text messages, website, or social posts to see if it’s a scam.
