A QR code It is an abbreviation for quick response code that mobile phones can read. In addition, its technology works in a two-dimensional manner with a matrix designed based on small squares in which coded information is stored.
Its design is no coincidence, but the greater the number of squares, the greater the amount of information stored in the QR. Although, unfortunately, some cybercriminals take advantage of their popularity to carry out different frauds, such as the recent parking scam that has gone viral in Spain.
As reported by the user @lozzylozboz on the social network scammed by scanning a fake QR code to pay for parking. The affected lost 1,000 euros when accessing a supposed payment gateway from the Payzone Parking company, where he entered his bank details before realizing that he was scanning a fake QR code that was located over the authentic one.
Given this situation, Payzone Parking recognized on platform They are aware of what happened, so They are removing all affected signage. In addition, it recommends users to contact their banking institutions in case they have entered bank details on a fraudulent website.
What is quishing?
The ‘quishing’ aims trick victims using fake QR code scanner to obtain personal and financial information. Cybercriminals use this scam to direct users to fraudulent pages where they enter the requested personal data, in this way, collect confidential information with which to pay off the theft.
The malicious QR codes used to carry out ‘quishing’ are found on billboards, emails, social networks, text messages and even establishments. Additionally, scammers use victims’ data to make unauthorized payments, identity theft, or even sell the data on the dark web.
Tips for scanning a public QR code
To avoid any theft of money or information when scanning a QR code, from 20bits we leave you a series of instructions that you should take into account:
- If you see a QR code in a public place, such as a bus stop or light pole, it is better to avoid scanning it.
- Distrust of QR codes received by email if they come from unknown or unsolicited senders.
- Only scan QR codes from trusted sources. If you’re not sure if a QR code is legitimate, don’t scan it.
- Use an app of QR code scanner that can warn you about malicious links.
- There are several QR code scanner apps available that can help you identify and avoid malicious QR codes.
- Have Be careful with the information you enter after scanning a QR code.
