Are QR codes secure? QR codes are able to be dangerous because they are able to lead to malicious websites, download malware, or start phishing attacks. QR code scams are on the rise, and cybercriminals take advantage of QR codes' anonymity to direct users to fake websites, steal personal information, or install harmful software on devices.

Scanning a QR code is potentially dangerous because it is able to lead to unintended and harmful actions, such as giving access to the device or personal information to cyber threats. QR codes are able to trigger harmful actions without the user's knowledge. QR codes are able to redirect to dangerous websites, automatically download malware like QR code virus, or be used in phishing attacks to steal sensitive data. The inability to see what a QR code will do before scanning increases the risk of falling victim to the scams.

To check if a QR code is safe, use a combination of caution, tools, and best practices before scanning. To ensure a QR code is safe, verify its source, inspect it for tampering, preview the URL, and avoid scanning codes in unsecured locations. Download apps through official app stores rather than QR codes, and use a smartphone's built-in camera for scanning to minimize risks.

QR code scams are becoming increasingly common as cybercriminals take advantage of QR codes' convenience and widespread use to deceive users. Scammers often use QR codes to trick users, leading to unauthorized payments, stolen data, or compromised device security. A malicious QR code has been scanned, and swift action is crucial to protect the device and personal information. Immediately disconnect from the internet if a malicious QR code has been scanned, avoid entering any personal information, clear the browser cache, run a security scan, change compromised passwords, monitor accounts for suspicious activity, and consider a factory reset if necessary.

Safeguarding data from QR code scams requires a systematic approach that includes alerting, checking, and using safe technologies. Verify QR code sources, preview URLs, avoid unsecured locations, keep devices updated, enable two-factor authentication, use security software to scan codes, and be cautious of shortened URLs. Implementing the practices provided significantly reduces the risk of falling victim to QR code scams.

Can QR Codes Be Dangerous?

Yes, QR codes can be dangerous. QR codes lead to malicious websites, download malware, or initiate phishing attacks when scanned, putting personal information and device security at risk. A QR code is able to connect to a harmful website to steal personal information or attack a device with malware. Scammers are able to use dangerous QR codes to direct users to fake websites that seem legitimate, tricking them into entering sensitive data. Some malicious QR codes directly steal information from the device. The inherent anonymity and ease of generating QR codes make them an attractive tool for cybercriminals.

Why is It Potentially Dangerous to Scan a QR Code?

Scanning a QR code is potentially dangerous because it is able to lead to unintended and harmful actions, such as giving access to the device or personal information to cyber threats. QR codes are able to easily be manipulated to direct users to malicious websites, download malware, or initiate phishing attacks without the user's knowledge. The reasons for QR codes’ potential danger are below.

• Redirection to malicious websites: Scanning a dangerous QR code opens a web browser and redirects the user to a malicious website. The website is able to be harmful if a malicious actor creates the QR code. Dangerous sites are often designed to look legitimate but contain hidden scripts or prompts that attempt to exploit security vulnerabilities in the device’s operating system or browser. Risky sites try to trick users into revealing personal information, such as login credentials, Social Security numbers, or financial details. Information captured in tricky ways is able to be utilized for identity theft, fraud, or other criminal activities.
• Automatic download of malware: A QR code is crafted to initiate the download of files when scanned automatically. Dangerous files are malware or software intentionally designed to cause harm. For example, QR code malware is able to be a virus that disrupts the device's functioning, spyware that tracks the user’s activities and steals personal information, or a virus that locks the user out of their device until a fee is paid. Once installed, the malware compromises the device's security, leading to data breaches, financial loss, or unauthorized access to sensitive information.
• Phishing attacks: QR codes are able to be used as part of phishing schemes, where the user is directed to a fake website that closely resembles a legitimate one, such as a bank, email provider, or online store. The site asks users to enter sensitive information, like usernames, passwords, or credit card numbers. Considering the site looks legitimate, users do not realize they are being tricked. Cybercriminals use this information to gain unauthorized access to accounts, commit financial fraud, or commit other crimes once it is entered.
• Impersonation and fraud: Cybercriminals are able to create QR codes that appear to be from trusted organizations, like a bank, a popular retailer, or a government agency. Tricky QR codes are distributed via email, social media, or printed on physical flyers and posters. Scanning a QR code takes the user to a fake website, initiates a fraudulent transaction, or triggers an action that appears legitimate but is harmful. It was recently reported that users received emails claiming to be from Amazon asking them to sign up for a new product testing club. Scammers have even put fake QR codes on stickers stuck on top of real ones in stores and restaurants to make it look like the fake ones were real.
• No visual cue: One of the key dangers of QR codes is that they don’t indicate what they do when scanned. QR codes, unlike traditional URLs, are just black-and-white patterns without a clear destination, which users cannot see before clicking. The lack of transparency makes it easy for cybercriminals to hide malicious intent within a QR code. Users are able to think they are scanning a code to view a menu, access a website, or redeem a coupon, but they have no way of knowing the actual action that is taken until it’s too late. Blind trust is able to lead to unintended consequences, such as exposing the device to QR code security risks or falling victim to scams.

How to Check If a QR Code is Safe

To check if a QR code is safe, use a combination of caution, tools, and best practices before scanning. Verifying the source, using security apps, and examining the destination URL significantly reduce the risk of scanning a malicious QR code. Below are four ways to check the safety of QR codes.

1. Verify the source. Ensure the QR code comes from a trusted and reliable source. Check the context where the code is presented for QR code safety. Approach cautiously if the QR code is on a spam email, flyer, or poster. Reputable companies or organizations often use QR codes in secure and controlled environments. Avoid scanning the code if unsure of its origin.
2. Inspect the QR code. Check the QR code physically for any modifications. Criminals place stickers with malicious QR codes over legitimate ones. Look for any unusual or out-of-place codes on printed materials. Scanning a code that appears to be an overlay or to be tampered with is not advisable.
3. Preview the URL. Smartphones and many QR code scanner apps allow one to preview the URL or action taken before proceeding. Be aware of URLs with suspicious domain names or shortened URLs (e.g., bit.ly). Avoid clicking on the link if it does not match the expected destination or seems unfamiliar.
4. Avoid scanning in public or unsecured areas. Be careful when scanning QR codes in public or unsecured areas, such as on posters, ads, or surfaces in public places. The unsecured QR codes are more likely to be tampered with or malicious. Prefer scanning codes from secure, trusted environments like official websites or known establishments.
5. Be careful downloading apps using a QR code. Try to avoid downloading apps directly through QR codes. Instead, search for the app in the official app store on the device, where it is more likely to be safe and verified. Use the built-in smartphone camera to scan QR codes, as most modern devices now include this feature. There is no longer a need to download a separate QR code scanner app, as the built-in camera provides the necessary functionality while minimizing the risk of encountering malicious software.

Visit our blog for detailed information about recognizing fake QR codes and how to spot them.

Don't Fall for These QR Code Scams

QR code scams are becoming increasingly common as cybercriminals exploit QR codes' convenience and widespread use to deceive users. The scams typically involve fake QR codes that appear legitimate but are designed to trick users into providing sensitive information, making unauthorized payments, or downloading harmful software. QR codes do not reveal their destination before being scanned, so they are easily manipulated for fraud. Falling victim to the scams results in financial loss, identity theft, and compromised device security. Understanding the various forms of QR code scams and staying vigilant is able to help prevent these types of fraud.

Malware

Scammers use QR codes to initiate the download of malicious software onto a user’s device. Once the malware is installed, it monitors activities, steals sensitive information, or locks the device until a fee is paid. The type of QR scam talked about is particularly dangerous because the user does not realize the malware has been installed until it’s too late. For example, a QR code on a seemingly legitimate flyer offers a free app download. Scanning the code initiates the download of malware that begins to steal the user's personal information.

Phishing

Phishing occurs when hackers use QR codes to trick people into visiting fake websites that look similar to real ones. The fake websites are meticulously designed to imitate the appearance and functionality of trusted institutions, such as banks, email providers, or social media platforms. The goal is to trick users into believing they are interacting with a real service, making them more likely to enter sensitive personal information.

Scanners are directed to phishing sites, which typically ask for information like usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other sensitive details. Users often don't realize anything is amiss until it's too late because the site looks legitimate. The information entered is then captured by the scammers, who use it for various malicious purposes, such as accessing the victim’s accounts, making unauthorized transactions, or selling the stolen data on the dark web. For example, It was recently reported that users received emails claiming to be from Amazon asking them to sign up for a new product testing club. Scammers have even put fake QR codes on stickers stuck on top of real ones in stores and restaurants to make it look like the fake ones were real.

For detailed information about QR code scams, read our guide about can QR code be used for fraud?

Payment fraud

People are tricked into sending money to scammers' accounts by QR codes that lead to fake payment sites. People are most likely to find these fake QR codes in places where they normally pay, like at restaurants, parking meters, or vending machines. The scam works by replacing real QR codes with fake ones that, when read, take the user to a payment page that the scammer controls. The customer doesn't know about the switch, so they enter their payment information or authorise a transaction because they think they are paying for a real service. People who fall for payment scams usually don't realise they've been scammed until they see charges or funds that were taken out of their accounts that they weren't supposed to have.

Cryptocurrency scams

The popularity of cryptocurrencies has led to scammers using QR codes to trick people into visiting fake cryptocurrency exchanges, wallets, or phishing sites designed to steal digital money. The QR code often leads to a fake cryptocurrency platform website that looks similar to a real one. People who use these sites are asked to enter their private keys, recovery phrases, or other private information. Scammers then use this information to get into the user's cryptocurrency accounts without permission.

The QR code sometimes leads to a fake wallet address, which causes people to send cryptocurrency to the fake wallet instead of the real one. Cryptocurrency trades are irreversible, so once the money is sent, it can't be retrieved, making this type of scam especially dangerous.

Fake Wi-Fi access scams

Scammers use QR codes to get people to join fake Wi-Fi networks, also called "evil twins," that look like real public Wi-Fi networks. The QR code connects the device to a fake network controlled by the hacker. The hacker steals all data sent, including personal messages, login information, and banking information. The fake network also lets malware into the device, which is used for more control or data theft.

Scanned a Malicious QR Code? Here's What to Do

A malicious QR code has been scanned, and swift action is crucial to protect the device and personal information. Follow the steps below to respond effectively to the questions like what do you need before your camera phone can scan QR codes.

1. Disconnect from the Internet. The first step in minimizing damage after scanning a malicious QR code is disconnecting the device from all Internet connections, including Wi-Fi and mobile data. Disconnecting action prevents any downloaded malware from communicating with its control servers or accessing additional harmful content. The potential spread of malware is minimized by cutting off internet access, reducing the risk of further damage to the device and data theft.
2. Do not enter any information. Please avoid entering personal information, such as login credentials, credit card details, or other sensitive data, if the virus QR code directs to a website or form. Scammers often design phishing websites to look like legitimate services, making it easy to provide valuable information mistakenly. Exiting the browser or closing the application immediately prevents unintentional data exposure.
3. Clear the browser cache. Clearing the browser’s cache and history is crucial if the malicious QR code opens a web page. Clearing the browser’s cache removes any potentially harmful cookies, scripts, or temporary files stored during the visit. Harmful elements are sometimes used to track online activity or re-infect the device, so clearing them helps prevent further risks.
4. Run a security scan. Use a trusted antivirus or mobile security app to thoroughly scan the device for any signs of malware or suspicious activity. The security apps detect and isolate malicious software, providing instructions on safely removing it. Running a scan promptly helps identify and neutralize threats before they cause significant damage or steal sensitive information.
5. Change passwords. Any personal information entered after scanning the malicious QR code, especially login credentials, must be changed immediately. Choose strong, unique passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for unauthorized users to access accounts even if they have the password.
6. Monitor accounts. After a potential security breach, monitor financial accounts, email, and other sensitive services for unauthorized activity. Monitoring accounts include unusual transactions, unfamiliar login attempts, or unexpected changes to account settings. Report any suspicious activity to the relevant financial institutions, service providers, or email platforms and take steps to secure the accounts. Inform the bank about the potential compromise of the information.
7. Factory reset (if necessary). A factory reset is necessary if the device continues exhibiting signs of infection, such as unusual behavior, persistent pop-ups, or unauthorized access. A factory reset restores the device to its original state, erasing all data, settings, and apps. A factory reset must be considered a last resort because it also deletes personal files, so backing up important data before proceeding is essential. A factory reset removes deeply embedded malware that other methods do not fully eliminate.

Top Tips for Safeguarding Your Data from QR Code Scams

Safeguarding data from QR code scams requires a systematic approach that includes alerting, checking, and using safe technologies. Hackers use QR codes more often to do bad things like phishing, spreading malware, and making purchases without permission because they are becoming more common. Many scams depend on the fact that QR codes don't show where they lead until they are read. It's important to follow best practices that keep personal information and gadgets safe to avoid threats. Using the top tips below lowers the chances of falling for QR code scams and helps protect sensitive data.

• QR code source verification: Make sure the QR code comes from a reputable and trusted source before scanning. Avoid scanning codes found in spam emails, random flyers, or public places where they have been tampered with. Always check for signs of tampering, such as stickers placed over legitimate QR codes.
• URL preview: Many QR code scanners, including those integrated into smartphones, allow for a preview of the URL before visiting it. Always check the URL for signs of suspicious or unfamiliar domain names. Avoid clicking on URLs that look strange or don't match the expected destination.
• QR codes in unsecured locations: Be cautious when scanning QR codes in public or unsecured environments, such as posters, ads, or flyers. Scammers often place malicious QR codes in public locations. It’s safer to scan codes found in secure, trusted settings.
• Updating security patches: Update the device's operating system and apps regularly with the latest security patches. The updates often include fixes for vulnerabilities attacked by malicious QR codes, helping protect against potential threats.
• Two-factor authentication (2FA): Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) protects sensitive accounts. Two-factor authentication (FFA) provides an additional layer of security, requiring a second form of authentication if login credentials are compromised.
• Security software to scan QR codes: Consider using security software or apps that scan QR codes for malicious content before proceeding. Security tools provide an added layer of protection by checking the safety of the URL or action associated with the QR code.
• Shortened URLs: QR codes that lead to shortened URLs (e.g., bit.ly) are able to be cautiously approached. Shortened links obscure the final destination, making it harder to verify if the site is legitimate or safe. Avoid interacting with QR codes that use shortened URLs whenever possible.