QR codes are everywhere these days, right? From paying for groceries to accessing menus at restaurants, they’ve become a super convenient way to scan and go.
But wait a minute!
Have you ever thought that QR codes could be used by scammers to trick you? Yes, you heard it right.
This sneaky tactic is called "Quishing" or "QRshing" – a combination of QR code and phishing.
Let’s dive into what it is and how to keep yourself safe from this trap.
What Exactly is Quishing or QRshing?
So, let's break it down. Quishing, also known as QRshing, is a type of phishing scam where scammers use QR codes to steal your personal or financial information.
Just like regular phishing emails trick you into clicking on malicious links, quishing involves scanning a QR code that directs you to a fake website.
It could look just like a bank's login page, an e-commerce checkout page, or any other site you trust. The moment you enter your details – boom! The scammers have got you.
QRshing is becoming more common as QR codes gain popularity. It’s easier than ever for scammers to create fake QR codes and stick them over legitimate ones.
So, when you think you’re just paying for your meal or downloading an app, you could be handing over your data to fraudsters.
Wondering How Quishing Scams Work? Here’s the Scoop!
Wondering how a tiny square full of black and white dots can cause so much trouble? Here’s how these scams usually go down:
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Fake QR Code Stickers: Scammers create bogus QR codes and place them over legitimate ones. This could be on restaurant tables, posters, or even at parking meters.
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Redirect to Malicious Sites: When you scan these fake QR codes, they don’t take you to the original site but redirect you to a malicious website. The site may look real, but it's a trap.
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Tricking You for Your Info: These fake sites often ask you to enter sensitive information like your credit card details, login credentials, or OTPs. Once you do, scammers can use this information for fraudulent activities.
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Downloading Malware: In some cases, scanning the fake QR code could prompt a download. This might be malware that steals information from your device or even locks it up for ransom.
Where Can QRshing Catch You Off Guard? Let’s Find Out!
Quishing scams can catch you off guard because scammers are good at blending fake QR codes into places you wouldn’t suspect. Here are some situations where you need to be extra cautious:
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Restaurants and Cafes: Many eateries use QR codes for digital menus and online payments. A fake QR code placed over the original could redirect you to a phishing site.
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Public Parking Meters: Paying for parking via QR codes is common, but scammers could place fake codes over the payment sticker.
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Promotional Posters or Advertisements: Scammers often place fake QR codes on posters, especially in high-traffic areas. You might think you’re scanning to access a discount or a special offer, but it could be a phishing trap.
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Emails and Text Messages: You might receive an email or SMS with a QR code claiming to be from a trusted company. The QR code could lead to a fake website that asks for your login details or other sensitive information.
Don’t Fall for Quishing Scams – Here’s How to Stay Safe!
Prevention is always better than cure, right? The good news is, you can protect yourself from quishing scams with a few smart precautions. Here’s how you can avoid falling into the trap:
1. Double-Check the Source
Always be cautious of where you’re scanning a QR code from. If it’s from a promotional poster or an advertisement, ensure it’s from a trusted source. If the code is on a printed piece, look closely to see if there is another QR code underneath.
2. Verify the URL Before You Proceed
After scanning a QR code, the URL will appear on your screen before you are redirected to the website. Take a second to review it. Does it look legit? Is it spelled correctly? Avoid clicking on shortened URLs like bit.ly, as they can mask the real web address. If something seems off, don’t proceed.
3. Stick to Official Apps and Websites
Whenever possible, use official apps for payments and services. For instance, if a restaurant asks you to scan a QR code to pay, open the payment app yourself and complete the payment. Don’t rely on unfamiliar QR codes.
4. Don’t Download Apps from QR Codes
Some QR codes may prompt you to download an app. This can be a big red flag. Always download apps from official app stores like Google Play Store or Apple App Store, not from third-party links.
5. Keep Your Device’s Security Updated
Ensuring that your phone's antivirus software and operating system are up-to-date can help detect malicious websites and downloads. It may not be foolproof, but it does add an extra layer of protection.
Want to Keep Your Info Safe? Here’s How to Stop Quishing in Its Tracks!
Aside from avoiding potential traps, here are some proactive measures to prevent falling for QRshing:
1. Educate Yourself and Others
The more you know about quishing scams, the better you can protect yourself. Share this knowledge with friends and family, so they don’t fall for these tricks either.
2. Use a QR Code Scanner with Built-in Security Features
Some QR code scanning apps come with built-in security checks. These apps can warn you if a QR code links to a malicious website or an unsecured page. It’s not a foolproof method, but every bit of security helps.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on Your Accounts
This is a big one. If scammers do manage to get hold of your login details, two-factor authentication can be the difference between an annoying incident and a full-blown crisis. Enabling 2FA means that even if someone has your password, they would still need another piece of information to access your account.
4. Regularly Monitor Your Bank and Credit Card Statements
Check your financial statements regularly for any suspicious activity. If you spot any unknown transactions, report them to your bank immediately. It's better to be proactive than to regret not acting fast enough.
Oops, Got Caught in a Quishing Scam? Here’s What to Do Next!
Let’s face it, mistakes happen. If you ever fall for a quishing scam, take immediate action:
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Contact Your Bank or Payment Provider: Inform them of the incident so they can take preventive measures, such as freezing your account or blocking suspicious transactions.
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Change Your Passwords: If you entered login details after scanning a malicious QR code, change your passwords immediately. Make sure to change them on any accounts that use the same login information.
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Report the Scam: Let the authorities know about the incident. In India, you can file a complaint with the Cyber Crime department or visit the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
Why Are Quishing Scams on the Rise?
The rise in QR code scams is partly due to how easily accessible and convenient QR codes have become.
With the rapid digital shift post-pandemic, more businesses have adopted QR codes for payments, menus, event check-ins, and more.
Unfortunately, scammers are just as quick to adapt, finding new ways to exploit popular technology.
Scammers know that QR codes can look very innocent – after all, they’re just a bunch of squares, right?
This makes it easy for people to scan without a second thought. It’s exactly this casual approach that makes QRshing effective. But with a little bit of caution, you can protect yourself from these scams.
Stay Vigilant, Stay Safe
QR codes have indeed made our lives easier, but they also come with risks.
The best way to protect yourself is to stay vigilant and be cautious whenever you scan a QR code, especially in public places.
If something feels off, it probably is. Better safe than sorry, right?
At Suvit, we write on topics like these because we’re committed to helping people like you in navigating the digital landscape safely while also making smart financial choices.
If you don’t know Suvit, I must tell you: Suvit is an accounting automation tool that assists CAs and tax professionals in automating their clerical work, allowing them to focus on more value-added tasks.
