BTN News: During the COVID-19 pandemic, QR codes became very popular. They are a quick and easy way to access information, menus, and services without touching anything. But this convenience has also led to a new scam called QRishing. QRishing is when scammers use fake QR codes to trick people into visiting harmful websites. These websites often steal personal information or financial data. In this article, we will explain what QRishing is, why it is dangerous, and how you can protect yourself from these scams.
Understanding QRishing and Its Dangers
QRishing combines “QR” (Quick Response) and “phishing.” It involves creating fake QR codes that lead to dangerous websites. Scammers place these QR codes in public places or other spots where they seem trustworthy. When people scan these codes, they are taken to fake websites that look real. The purpose of these websites is to steal information like email addresses, bank details, or even payments. The simplicity and speed of QR codes make it easy for scammers to trick people. This is why QRishing is becoming more common and dangerous.
Real-Life Examples of QRishing Scams
To understand the risk of QRishing, let’s look at a real example from Madrid. BiciMAD is the city’s bike rental service. Scammers put fake QR codes next to the bikes. People thought they were accessing the official BiciMAD website to pay for a bike rental. Instead, they were taken to a fake website that stole their payment information. This example shows how easy it is for QR codes to be used in scams. Similar scams can happen anywhere. For instance, scammers might put fake QR codes on restaurant menus, bus ads, or event posters. These codes lead to websites that ask for personal information or automatically download harmful software.
Protecting Yourself from QRishing Attacks
To avoid QRishing scams, you need to be careful when scanning QR codes. Here are five important tips to help you stay safe:
- Scrutinize the Source: Before scanning a QR code, think about where it is. Be cautious if the code is in a random public place like a wall or bus stop. If it looks out of place or suspicious, don’t scan it.
- Verify Legitimacy: If you see a QR code for a service or product, visit the official website instead of using the QR code. For example, if the QR code is for a bike rental service, search for the service’s website online or contact their customer service to check if the QR code is real.
- Use URL Scanning Tools: If you scan a QR code and it takes you to a website, check the URL before doing anything else. Use online tools like VirusTotal, Sucuri, or PCrisk to see if the website is safe. These tools can tell you if the website is known for being harmful.
- Avoid Entering Personal Information: Don’t enter personal information like email addresses, passwords, or payment details on a website you accessed through a QR code unless you are sure it is safe. Even if the website looks real, it’s better to be careful.
- Report Suspicious Codes: If you find a suspicious QR code, report it to the proper authorities or the organization it claims to represent. This helps protect others from being scammed.
In conclusion, QR codes are convenient and useful but can also be dangerous when used by scammers. QRishing is a growing threat that requires us to be aware and careful. By following the tips above and staying informed about the latest scams, you can protect yourself from these tricks. Always be cautious and verify the source of any QR code before scanning it.
