QR codes can be a quick and convenient way to access a website without typing in or searching for the URL. Typically, QR codes are used so that people who scan it can gain quick access to the desired site. Although they have existed and been widely used for quite some time, there has been a slight increase in usage recently since QR codes offered a contactless way to transmit information during the COVID lockdowns.
However, in a recent announcement, the FBI warned the public of widespread QR code scams. In their statement, they advised that people be careful when scanning QR codes since cybercriminals have begun to use them as another avenue through which they can steal from their victims. In some circumstances, it has been observed that cybercriminals will swap legitimate QR codes for fraudulent ones in order to steal information and/or money from the people that scan them. For example, many restaurants have been offering QR codes through which their menus can be accessed instead of paper menus. In these restaurants, the QR code might be displayed on the wall or the table, where any person could swap them out for a fake. Once an innocent visitor scans the code in search of the menu, the scammer will have access to their device.
Once the scammer has access to your device, they may be able to access any apps that you use, including financial and personal apps, or download malware onto your device. And, according to the FBI, since many crypto transactions occur via QR codes, that makes those transactions particularly susceptible to this scam. Cybercriminals have even been able to hijack digital QR codes as well, so it is important to exercise caution when scanning QR codes under any circumstances. Unless the QR code has originated from a verifiable, trustworthy source, you should be hesitant to scan it.
Upon scanning a QR code, you should make sure that the URL it leads to is a legitimate one. If asked to provide personal information after scanning a QR code, exercise extreme caution. The FBI has also advised against downloading apps directly from QR codes or completing payments.
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