QR codes are a convenient way to get to a website, payment page, or a brand’s social pages. Unfortunately, they’re also open to abuse by scammers. Because a QR code doesn’t immediately show the web page details like a URL (full web address) does, there’s no way to immediately know exactly where the QR code might send you (although the camera screen will show you the destination when you scan it and before you click on it). Scammers are not using these codes to direct users to websites where they can take advantage of and trick them into making payments or collect personal data.
Learn more about fake QR codes and how to avoid QR code scams below.
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How QR Code Scams Work
QR codes can be generated for any website or online portal. Scammers will often create scam sites emulating real payment sites, such as a restaurant ordering page or a parking payment page. They also add them to physical locations like store windows or outdoor signage (victims scan the fraudulent QR code, which has often been added as a sticker over the original QR code). They’re then taken to a page that collects their payment details. They make the payment, but the money goes to the scammer, not the service provider.
Other scams involve emails containing QR codes designed to gather personal information or install malware on your device. This is a type of phishing called “quishing.” It works because QR codes aren’t always picked up as potentially suspicious by spam filters in the same way conventional links are.
Red Flags That Indicate Fake QR Codes
It can be tricky to spot QR code scams because all QR codes look fairly similar. However, there are some things you can look out for:
- Has the QR code on the window or menu been replaced recently, or does it look like a sticker that’s been placed over a pre-existing code? It’s probably fake.
- Branded QR codes should follow the branding of the service provider, for example, with the logo of a parking company. If you don’t see any branding at all, it’s likely to be a scam.
- When you scan the QR code, does the landing page look different than what you expected? This could be a red flag.
- Web pages without the service provider’s name or details on are also warning signs, as are poor spelling and grammar, or no details other than a payment page.
- Urgency is also a warning sign, for example, “Pay now to avoid penalties!”
You can also look at the web address once you’ve scanned the code. If it doesn’t match the company/brand you expected, close the page and contact the service provider via their official website. It’s also good advice to never follow a QR code from an email.
Protect Yourself from Online Scams
You can check the validity of QR codes using online checkers. Take a picture of the QR code, upload it, and the scam checker will tell you if the code will send you to a legitimate website or a fake. If unsure, always use another way to pay or provide your personal details.
You can get more information about fraud like quishing and other QR code scams by signing up to Scam Detector's Scam Alerts. Regular updates to your inbox help you stay one step ahead of the scammers.
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