Scan or scam: four ways to avoid fake QR codes

Businesses use QR codes to offer convenient services and transactions. Unfortunately, scammers and cybercriminals have also used them for fraud.

These people started to place fake QR codes in places where people thought it was legit, making it hard to find out which one was to be trusted.

Eva Novick, a US cybersecurity attorney, said that QR codes look like a bunch of lines and blobs to the ordinary person. This makes it hard for them to distinguish authentic QR codes from fake ones.

Most QR code generator online tools prohibit the use of their services for fraud, but some skilled scammers still manage to push through and launch QR codes that lead to phishing sites.

Knowing how to spot a fake QR code is essential to protect yourself from cyber hacks. Here are four easy ways to avoid them:

Think before you scan

Always be mindful and vigilant before scanning a QR code. Fake ones can lead you to a phony website that can phish your personal information and bank details.

Take a closer look at a QR code before scanning one. See that it is not just a sticker plastered over the printed material.

Look at where it redirects you

One way to avoid a QR code scam is to check its destination. Upon scanning a QR code, a link will appear on the scanner’s screen, and they will only redirect to the link when they tap it.

Before tapping the link, assess its security or validity first. Does it lead you to the right website? Or does it look suspicious?

Other websites even look legit and can entice people to disclose sensitive information that should be kept private.

You can copy the link and run it through an online website scanner or verifier. This precaution will help you guarantee that the QR code’s URL is valid and secure.

Avoid scanning QR codes from emails

Be careful when scanning a QR code from an email, as there will be a tendency that you are scanning a fake and malicious one.

Malicious QR codes can lead you to install malware on your device or compromise your private account’s security.

Check first whether the email comes from a verified source. Also, if the email is in your spam folder, it’s better not to tap on any links or scan QR codes.

Avoid paying bills using a QR code

Suppose you ever receive an unknown email containing a QR code for a bill. In that case, it is better to contact the company asking you to make the payment.

Be wary of paying bills from an unknown QR code. With one scan, these QR codes can potentially steal your banking credentials and money from your bank accounts.

Verify the request first before sending funds or giving your financial details.

Stay safe from QR code scams

Though digital transactions via QR codes can simplify daily transactions, some people use them for fraud. They can easily create fake QR codes and place them over the original ones.

Businesses must now guarantee their consumers that their QR codes are safe for scanning. One way to do so is using QRTIGER, an ISO 27001 accredited QR code generator.

Go to the best QR code generator today and create QR codes that are 100% safe for your consumers.