Last Updated: December 13, 2023, 08:00 IST
The US govt has shared list of warnings and tips for QR code scams
QR code scams are going global now that the US government has warned about these attacks, how they work and how to avoid falling for one.
QR code scams have become extremely common, now that millions use the technology to make payments, scan food menus or get details for people. The Indian police has even alerted everyone about the possible issues with QR codes and how scammers are now using it to infiltrate devices to access personal details.
But it seems the QR scam has now become a global issue, with the US government sharing its own advisory and warning for people in the country. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has talked about the problems with using the technology and what ways the attackers can scam people.
QR Code Scam Warning In US: What the Govt Says
The FTC warning has echoes of what we have heard from the police and cyber experts in India recently. The agency says scammers have hidden dangerous website links within the QR codes which can be used to steal anyone’s information. The report also points out the use of QR codes in parking metres that enables them to steal data from the users. The other main source of these QR code scams are used disguised as delivery agents.
The scammers contact you about some issue with delivery and request you to share details, for which they might share a QR code which could invariably cost you dearly. The other popular mode for these scams has been people calling you and claiming there is some problem in your account, which could be from your bank or telecom operator.
How To Avoid Falling For QR Code Scams
Now that you know the basic tricks of these QR code scams, it is vital to know that you can easily avoid falling into the trap of these scams. Firstly, always make sure you are scanning the QR code at a genuine or reliable place. Most of the scams have typos in their messages or text written along with the QR code, always try to be careful about these changes.
If you get a random message or email with a QR code asking to act immediately on it, don’t. And finally, be careful of the payment QR codes that could dupe you into sending money rather than receiving it.
