Quishing: The Sneaky Side of QR Codes
QR codes have become a staple in our digital diet, popping up everywhere from restaurant tables to concert tickets and even parking meters. They're convenient, sure, but with great convenience comes great opportunities for mischief—specifically, quishing.
What is Quishing?
Quishing, or QR code phishing, is a deceptive tactic where fraudsters use QR codes to mislead victims into visiting malicious websites, downloading malware, or divulging personal information. These corrupted QR codes might be found on flyers, stickers, posters, and even digital screens, pretending to offer legitimate links - but leading you straight into a trap.
How Quishing Plays Out
Imagine walking down the street, spotting a cute sticker with a QR Code. Curiosity gets the best of you and you scan the QR code, expecting to land on some fun Easter egg or deal. Instead, the moment you scan the code, malware begins to download onto your phone.
Tips to Avoid Falling for Quishing
To keep your digital self safe while using QR codes, consider these pointers:
1. Pause Before You Scan: Just because you can scan, doesn’t mean you should. Take a moment to consider why and where you’re scanning from.
2. Verify the Source: If a QR code is on a public poster or an unsolicited mail, it’s worth questioning. Real deals and trustworthy information rarely require you to scan a QR code from a flyer stuck to a lamppost.
3. Use Secure QR Code Scanners: Some QR code scanning apps have built-in security features to check the safety of the links before opening them.
4. Keep Personal Information Personal: If a scanned QR code leads you to a form asking for personal details, think twice. Legitimate companies won’t ask for sensitive information this way.
5. Update Your Security Software: Ensure your phone’s software and any relevant apps are up to date to guard against malware.
Wrapping It Up
In the age of instant digital gratification, quishing is a reminder that not every shortcut is worth taking. While QR codes can lead to efficiency and ease, they can also open the door to digital threats if not approached with caution.
So, next time you're about to scan a QR code, remember that a quick pause to verify can save you a lot of trouble down the line.
More tips:
- If you receive a suspicious call or text, please call us at 888.336.2700 to confirm the message is truly from us.
- Visit our Security and Fraud Protection page for more support.