Quick Response (QR) codes have become an integral part of our online transactions and finding links to specific sites. As they are becoming a part of our daily lives as scamers are trying to do malicious activities by using them. Therefore, individuals and businesses need to stay active and conscious about malicious activities to keep themselves safe from any harm. Whether it is monetary or documentary, you should keep yourself active while scanning any QR code on your devices. In this article, we will tell you about QR code scams and how you can identify them to keep yourself safe.
What are QR Code Scams?
QR code scams are some sort of phishing cyber scam where users scan hidden malicious links to get into scams. Cyber scammers can make a customised QR code to trick any of the internet users into their scamming trick. If users get tricked, scammers will try to take benefit of users’ trust and perform malicious activities.
Tips for Identifying and Avoiding QR Code Scams
Individuals who are using QR codes every day need to know how to identify fake QR codes. Therefore, we have compiled a guide on identifying and avoiding QR code scams. Here, you will get to know the ways to identify fake QR codes:
- Inspect the Source
- Check the URL
- Use a QR Code Scanner App
- Verify with Official Sources
- Stay Informed
Inspect the Source
First of all, you need to investigate the QR code’s source to determine whether it is from an authentic source. If not, then you should scan this type of QR code to make yourself safe from any malicious activity. You also must be wary of codes received from various sources, such as emails or social media platforms. After completing the investigation and confirming that the code is from an authentic source, you can scan it.
Check the URL
After completing the investigation of the source and QR code, you also need to carefully insect the URL it redirects. Further, you must ensure that it matches the official websites or applications associated with the offerings. In doing so, you will be able to save yourself from falling into any type of trouble that harms you. You can look for a subtle misspelling or a variation that may indicate a malicious site that will harm you.
Use a QR Code Scanner App
Thirdly, you should use a QR code scanner application on your devices instead of relying on the default camera app. The reason behind this is that they are more secure than your device’s default camera. Further, they have built-in features to detect false or fake QR codes that can’t be detected on the default camera. This feature has the ability to keep you safe from any malicious activity by detecting harmful codes.
Verify with Official Sources
You are recommended to verify the official sources of the QR codes if you have a doubt. This approach helps you to create a data-driven decision to keep yourself safe from any type of malicious attack. Moreover, companies usually provide their user with information on their official websites about the right and genuine QR code. They can also make this approach by associating the QR codes with their offering packages.
Stay Informed
Lastly, one of the most effective methods to identify any fake or malicious QR code is to stay informed. You should keep abreast of the latest QR code scam trends and educate yourself on common tactics employed by criminals. In this way, you can be aware of the phishing attacks that may target you to keep yourself safe. Awareness is a powerful tool in preventing falling victim to these scams.
Protective Measures to Stay Safe
However, you have identified fake or malicious QR code scams, but preventing them is also necessary. Therefore, we have compiled a list of some protective measures to keep you safe. Here, you will get to know some protective measures against QR code scams:
- Update Security Software
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication
- Be Skeptical
Update Security Software
Most of the time, software that is outdated can not have the potential to prevent you from any scam. The reasons behind that are they will have advanced trending QR code scam information and advanced security tools. Further, it’s necessary to update your antivirus and anti-malware software on your device to keep you safe from any scam. In doing so, they will be able to identify and mitigate emerging threats.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
The majority of the devices allow users to have two-factor (2F) authentication to keep their data in extra security. By adding an extra layer of security to your accounts through two-factor authentication can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access. It will protect your confidential or personal data even if login credentials are compromised on auto modes. In this way, you will be able to keep yourself safe from any type of malicious attacks and malicious activities on your accounts.
Avoid Downloading Applications
You should avoid downloading apps by using QR codes. Instead of scanning, find that application in the Play Store or Apple Store to install it directly on your device. There is no need to download any type of QR code on your device to scan it by the default camera. Further, this approach helps you to keep yourself protected against any type of malicious activity.
Be Sceptical
It is essential to be sceptical of any type of QR code to know its origins and how you can protect yourself. Therefore, exercise caution and scepticism when presented with QR codes, especially in unexpected or unsolicited communications. When in doubt, verify before scanning the code to make yourself safe from any type of malicious activities.
Final Verdict
While QR codes offer unparalleled convenience, users should be vigilant to avoid falling victim to scams. By adopting a careful technique, staying updated, and following the mentioned practices for QR code usage, individuals can harness the benefits of this technology without compromising their safety and personal data. Remember, an extra moment of scrutiny can cross a long manner in ensuring a safe digital experience.
