Think Twice Before Scanning QR Codes to Protect Your Cybersecurity

QR codes are everywhere—menus, posters, business cards, advertisements, and even receipts. And they are becoming more integrated into our society. In 2021, 25% of people used them, and that number is expected to rise to 30% this year. They make life convenient, allowing us to access information or perform actions with just a few clicks on our smartphone’s camera. Experts even celebrate these codes as a tool to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. 

But before you whip out your phone to scan that black-and-white pixeled box, it’s worth pausing for a moment. QR codes can pose real security risks if you’re not careful. 

Below, we outline the cybersecurity risks associated with QR codes—and what you can do as an individual or business to protect your data and other critical digital resources. 

The Cybersecurity Risks of Scanning QR Codes 

QR codes can present a hidden danger. Unlike a visible URL, a QR code doesn’t show where it’s taking you until you scan it. This lack of transparency makes it easy for bad actors to disguise malicious links behind an innocent-looking code. 

For example, a few months ago, Swiss residents began receiving letters at home from the country’s Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology, compelling them to scan a QR code to download a severe weather app. Or so they thought! In reality, these QR codes were a scam. When the QR code was scanned, it enabled cybercriminals to install a malware program onto the device to steal data. 

This is just the tip of the iceberg of what malware can do. On the mild end, this harmful software can slow services and impact productivity, while on the more severe side, in the case of ransomware, it can entirely lock out users from their devices or IT infrastructure until they pay a ransom. 

Malware and ransomware aren’t the only risks that you can encounter with a QR code. Other threats include: 

Phishing Attacks 

QR code phishing attacks (also known as quishing) use deceptive tactics to create sites that often look legitimate, making it easy to fall into a bad actor’s trap. Unfortunately, not all QR codes lead to safe websites. Similar to other types of social engineering methods like callback phishing, scammers can easily create fake codes that direct you to phishing sites designed to steal your sensitive information, like passwords, payment details, or personal data. 

Financial Scams 

Some fraudulent QR codes link to fake payment portals or cryptocurrency wallets. These can trick you into transferring money to scammers, often under the guise of legitimate transactions like donations or online payments. 

Device Exploitation 

Certain QR codes can exploit vulnerabilities in your device’s operating system. Hackers might gain access to your phone’s data, track your activities, or even take control of your device without your knowledge. This is why organizations that rely on digital devices would benefit from taking a device-centered zero trust cybersecurity approach! 

Five Tips to Stay Cyber Secure When Scanning A QR Code 

QR codes themselves aren’t inherently dangerous, but using them can pose significant risks to your resources or expose sensitive information. For organizations that rely on confidential data to underpin their operations, scanning a malicious QR code can lead to significant business disruption, financial loss, and reputational damage. 

Beyond following data management best practices as an organization to boost your protection more generally, there are specific steps that people can follow when interacting with QR codes to maintain strong cybersecurity: 

  1. Preview URLs: Use a QR scanner app that lets you see the destination link before opening it. Many modern smartphones have this feature. 
  2. Verify sources: Only scan QR codes from trusted sources and be cautious of codes on public posters, unexpected emails, or unverified websites. To be more confident that you are proceeding with a legitimate transaction, verify the requests you receive that encourage you to use a QR code—especially if someone is asking for sensitive information or payment. Confirm its legitimacy through another channel before proceeding. 
  3. Watch for tampering: Check if a QR code looks like it has been placed over another one. If you see a QR code added to a poster as a sticker, chances are that a bad actor may be attempting to swindle you. 
  4. Enable device security: Use antivirus or security apps to help detect and block malicious links or downloads. And make sure to upgrade your operating system so you always receive the most current security updates! 
  5. Develop a strategic plan: While individual actions are essential to boost cybersecurity, countering social engineering attacks organization-wide will require following a comprehensive strategy. Rather than taking a piecemeal approach, you want to tackle your risk holistically as a team. We’ve compiled a guide to strengthening the weakest link in your cybersecurity: your people! Humans make mistakes but can act as your strongest defenders when you provide adequate support and training. 

Partner with PC Corp to boost your organization’s cybersecurity 

QR codes are a fantastic tool for quick and easy access to digital content, but they also come with risks. By staying alert and following a few safety practices, you can enjoy their convenience without falling prey to scams or security threats. So next time you spot a QR code, take a moment to think before you scan—your digital safety is worth it! 

Entrust your IT infrastructure with our team at PC Corp. When you partner with our procurement specialists, they will leverage long-standing relationships with top-tier manufacturer partners to deliver you robust technology with built-in protection mechanisms. And on an ongoing basis, our managed IT services team is here to educate your staff and implement proactive maintenance and monitoring measures that keep your data safe from evolving cybersecurity threats. 

Contact us today to learn how we can help you stay secure and ahead of the curve.

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