The UK is a recent target of a QR code scam. It involves a parking payment station where a woman was charged $16,000 after scanning a QR code with her phone. This scam is increasingly becoming popular in the US, leading to lost funds, identity theft, and infected devices with spyware, ransomware, and viruses. QR codes, short for “quick-response” codes, are square pixels that hold over 300 times the data of a bar code. These codes can be generated by anyone and are found in numerous locations such as TV ads, restaurants, farmer’s markets, and parking lots. However, they have also become a tool for scammers.
QR code scams work similarly to phishing attacks, but with some unique features. When scanned, fake QR codes can direct users to malicious websites or infect their devices with malware. These phony codes appear in various places, including public locations, fake parking tickets, and fraudulent offers by email. To prevent falling for QR code scams, follow some basic rules. Avoid scanning random QR codes and always check the destination link after scanning. Be cautious about shortened links, watch for tampering on placed codes, and stick to using your phone’s native QR code reader. Lastly, it’s recommended to use scam protection on your phone to avoid scam texts and block risky websites.