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QR Codes

QR Codes

QR Code is a two-dimensional barcode that is read by smartphones. It consists of information that can be grabbed from the transitory media and display on your mobile phone. It Requires over 4000 characters to be stored in a two-dimensional barcode. QR Codes can be used to show text to the recipient, to open a URL, to save a contact to an address book, or to write text messages. You may see QR Codes in magazine adverts, on billboards, web pages or even on someone’s t-shirt.

Are QR codes safe to use?

All QR codes are not safe. Considering that everyone can generate a QR code and point it to whatever online destination they want, there is space for scammers to take advantage of the technology.

  • Dissecting malicious QR codes

    These types of QR codes contain links to malicious websites embedded with malware.

  • Contact details / personal information can be exposed

    The QR code contains all your contact data, such as your phone number, email address and mailing information. When scanned, this information is automatically saved in the system contact list. If the data is malicious, it may cause an exploit on your computer or put a villain on your phone for your favorite airline or credit card.

  • Can perform phishing attacks

    After scanning the QR Code, instead of directing the user to the intended web page, the fake code could take users to phishing websites or those that install malware on your device

  • Malware Attacks

    Scanning a QR code will initiate and guide you to a website automatically. The contents can comprise of malware that can get installed on your device.

  • Track your location

    Scanning the QR code would immediately send your location to the geolocation-enabled program which will track your location immediately.

  • Can be access to your social media platforms

    Scanning this form of QR code will trigger a follow-up to a particular profile on pages such as Instagram or Twitter using the personal profile of the scanner. Depending on the social media site, the account being followed will have access to your personal information.

How to protect from malicious QR codes?
  • Do not scan a QR code embedded in an email.
  • Be careful when you scan QR codes from unknown sources.
  • Download QR code scanner apps only from trusted websites.
  • Never include your personal or sensitive information if the scanned QR code redirect you to a website.
  • Do not scan QR codes that say nothing about what they link to.
  • If possible, and particularly in public areas, search for visual signs that the QR code has not been tampered with.