QR codes have become a part of our daily lives, from restaurant menus to payment gateways. However, not all QR codes are safe to scan. Cybercriminals have found ways to manipulate them for fraudulent activities, tricking users into giving away sensitive data or installing malware.
This guide will walk you through how to identify secure QR codes, recognize scams, and stay protected while using them.
Understanding QR Code Scams
QR code phishing, also known as “quishing,” is a growing cyber threat where scammers use fake QR codes to deceive users into providing confidential information or unknowingly downloading malicious software. Here are some common QR code scams:
- Fake Websites: Fraudulent QR codes redirect users to phishing sites that request personal details, such as credit card information.
- Malware Download: Scanning a compromised QR code can trigger the installation of harmful software on your device.
- Bogus Discounts & Offers: Scammers create fake promotional QR codes to lure users into sharing sensitive data under false pretenses.
Due to the increasing prevalence of these scams, authorities, including the FBI, have issued warnings urging people to be cautious.
How to Verify QR Code Safety
Not all QR codes are fraudulent, but it’s crucial to verify their legitimacy before scanning. Here’s how to differentiate between a safe and a potentially harmful QR code:
| ✅ Legitimate QR Code | ❌ Suspicious QR Code |
| Branded design with a company logo | Generic design lacking branding |
| Sent from a verified email with a business domain | Sent from an unknown or misspelled email domain |
| Physically intact (not altered or covered with stickers) | Shows signs of tampering or overlays |
| Redirects to an HTTPS-secured website | Leads to an HTTP site or a suspicious URL |
| Shared by a trusted source | Received from an unfamiliar or unverified source |
To ensure safety while scanning QR codes, follow these precautionary measures:
1. Use Secure QR Code Scanner Apps
Modern smartphones (Android 8+ and iOS 11+) come with built-in QR scanners in their camera apps. If a QR code requires downloading a third-party scanner, proceed with caution, as some apps may request excessive permissions, exposing your device to risks.
If you prefer using a dedicated QR scanner, choose one from a reputable source and review its data collection policies. Security experts, such as podcast, state that QR code scanners typically collect minimal data—such as location, time of scan, and device type—but should never request sensitive information.
2. Verify the Source of the QR Code
Cybercriminals often embed QR codes in phishing emails that appear to come from trusted brands. Before scanning, inspect the sender’s email address to detect any misspellings or discrepancies. If uncertain, check if the domain has been flagged as unsafe.
3. Look for Design and Branding Elements
Many businesses customize QR codes with logos and brand colors, helping users recognize authenticity. If a QR code leads to a website without proper branding or contains grammar mistakes, it could be a red flag.
4. Check for Physical Tampering
Fraudsters sometimes replace legitimate QR codes with their own by placing stickers over original ones. Always examine QR codes in public places, such as restaurants or parking meters, to ensure they haven’t been altered.
5. Preview the URL Before Clicking
Before opening a QR code link, preview the URL to confirm its legitimacy. Secure sites use HTTPS (not HTTP) and often display a padlock symbol. Be wary of URLs that contain slight misspellings of well-known brands.
What to Do If You Scan a Fraudulent QR Code
If you accidentally interact with a spicious QR code, take these immediate steps to protect yourself:
- Change Your Passwords – If you entered sensitive information, update your passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
- Notify Your Bank – If financial details were shared, inform your bank to prevent unauthorized transactions.
- Install Security Software – Antivirus or identity theft protection software can detect and remove threats from your device.
- Secure Remote Access – If you use remote desktop connections, ensure you have strong security measures in place to prevent unauthorized access.
How to Generate Secure QR Codes
For businesses looking to create QR codes, using a trusted QR code generator is essential. A reliable platform should include security features such as:
- Custom Branding: Allows businesses to add their logo and customize domains (e.g., qr.yourcompany.com).
- Single Sign-On (SSO): Restricts QR code access to authorized personnel.
- Data Protection Compliance: Ensure the generator follows GDPR and HIPAA guidelines to safeguard user data.
- ISO 27001 Certification: A globally recognized security standard for handling customer data.
- Password Protection: Some QR codes, especially for financial documents, can be password-protected for extra security.
- Age Restrictions: Businesses in regulated industries (e.g., alcohol sales) can implement age verification for QR code content.
Platforms like Uniqode incorporate these security features to prevent unauthorized access and protect QR code users from cyber threats.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are QR Codes Safe to Use?
While QR codes are generally safe, cybercriminals have exploited them for phishing and malware distribution. To minimize risks, always verify the source, inspect URLs before clicking, and avoid providing personal details unless you’re certain of the legitimacy.
2. What Are the Risks of QR Code Scams?
QR code fraud can involve:
- Phishing attacks that steal login credentials or financial details.
- Malware downloads that compromise your device security.
- Fake discounts and promotions designed to deceive users.
- Physically tampered QR codes that redirect users to fraudulent sites.