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Is QR code no longer safe? NITDA warns against QR code scams
(Apr 01 at 05:55am)
QR code (Quick Response Code) is a type of two-dimensional barcode invented in 1994 by the Japanese company Denso Wave for labeling automobile parts. QR codes are now used for a wide variety of purposes, including tracking products, storing contact information, and linking to websites.
A QR code consists of black squares arranged in a square grid on a white background, including some fiducial markers which can be read by an imaging device, such as a camera, and processed using Reed–Solomon error correction until the image can be appropriately interpreted. The required data are then extracted from patterns that are present in both the horizontal and vertical components of the QR image.
Phishing Websites: This is a common tactic. Scammers create fake websites designed to look like real ones, such as your bank's login page or a popular social media platform. They then encode the URL of this fake website into a QR code. Here's the trick:
The QR code might be placed strategically, like on a sticker next to a real ATM or printed on a fake receipt that looks official.
When you scan the code, you'll be taken to the fake website. The design might be very similar to the real one, so you might not even notice the difference.
Once you enter your login information or other sensitive data on the fake website, the scammer steals it.
Malicious App Downloads: QR codes can also be used to download malware onto your device. Here's how it works:
The QR code could be linked to a malicious app disguised as something legitimate, like a free game or a productivity tool.
Once you scan the code and download the app, it could steal your personal information, infect your device with viruses, or even spy on your activity.
Here are some tips to stay safe from QR code scams:
Don't scan QR codes from unknown sources: Be wary of scanning codes you see in random places, especially if they seem too good to be true (like a free gift card).
Inspect the URL before visiting: If the QR code leads to a website, see if you can hover over the link (on a computer) or hold your finger on it (on a phone) to preview the URL before visiting it. If it looks suspicious, don't click on it.
Use a QR code scanner app: Some scanner apps can warn you about malicious links before you visit them.
Never enter sensitive information on a website accessed through a QR code: If you need to log in to your bank account or another sensitive service, go directly to the official app or website instead of using a QR code.
You can read all about it using the link below
[url=]https://nairametrics.com/2024/03/31/scammers-now-using-qr-codes-for-fraud-nitda-warns-nigerians/?utm_source=techpoint%20digest&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=techpoint%20digest[/url]
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