The Dangers of Using QR Codes in Public Spaces: What You Need to Know.

In today’s digital age, Quick Response (QR) codes have become ubiquitous, appearing on everything from restaurant menus to advertising billboards. While QR codes offer a convenient way to access information or complete transactions with a simple scan quickly, they can also pose significant security risks when used in public spaces. As a cybersecurity and technical support specialist, I want to shed light on the dangers of unverified QR codes and share tips on protecting yourself.

What Are QR Codes? A Brief History

QR codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can store various information, such as URLs, text, contact information, or even payment details. Created in 1994 by the Japanese company Denso Wave, they were initially designed to track automotive parts during manufacturing. Their ability to store more information than traditional barcodes and fast scanning capabilities led to their widespread adoption in various industries. Today, QR codes are used for marketing, contactless payments, digital authentication, and even COVID-19 vaccination certificates.

However, the same convenience that makes QR codes appealing makes them an attractive target for cybercriminals.

The Dangers of Scanning Unverified QR Codes

When you scan a QR code, your device deciphers the code and performs the intended action, such as opening a URL, downloading a file, or connecting to a network. While this process is usually harmless with legitimate codes, unverified QR codes found in public places can present serious risks:

1. Malicious URLs: Cybercriminals can embed harmful URLs in QR codes, leading unsuspecting users to phishing websites that mimic legitimate services. These fake sites can trick users into entering sensitive information like login credentials, credit card details, or personal identification numbers.
2. Malware Installation: Sometimes, a QR code may direct your device to download a malicious application or file, which can install malware or ransomware. Once installed, the malware can gain access to sensitive information, monitor your activities, or even lock your device until a ransom is paid.
3. Wireless Network Attacks: QR codes can also be used to connect your device to a compromised Wi-Fi network. If a cybercriminal sets up a rogue hotspot and embeds the network details in a QR code, your device could connect to it automatically, allowing the attacker to intercept your data.
4. QR Code Tampering: Even legitimate QR codes are not immune to tampering. Stickers containing fraudulent QR codes can be placed over the original codes on posters, menus, or advertisements. Scanning these altered codes can redirect you to harmful websites or launch attacks on your device.
5. Payment Fraud: QR codes are increasingly used for mobile payments. Scanning an unverified QR code could redirect a payment to a cybercriminal’s account instead of the intended recipient, leading to financial loss.

Real-World Examples of QR Code Attacks

• Fake Parking Tickets: In several cities, scammers have been found placing phoney parking tickets on cars. The tickets include a QR code for paying the "fine" online. Drivers who scan the code are taken to a phishing site that collects payment details.
• Restaurant Menus: During the COVID-19 pandemic, many restaurants switched to QR code menus to reduce physical contact. Cybercriminals exploited this trend by placing fake QR code stickers over legitimate ones, leading diners to phishing websites or malware downloads.
• Crypto Scams: QR codes are often used in cryptocurrency transactions for quick payments. Scammers have taken advantage of this by creating QR codes that redirect payments to their own wallets, tricking users into sending funds to the wrong address.

How to Protect Yourself

Being cautious with QR codes doesn’t mean avoiding them altogether. Instead, adopt these practices to ensure you stay safe:

1. Verify the Source: Before scanning a QR code, ensure it comes from a legitimate and trusted source. Check for signs of tampering, such as stickers placed over the original code.
2. Preview the URL: Many QR code scanner apps allow you to preview the URL before visiting the site. If the link looks suspicious or unfamiliar, avoid clicking on it. Pay attention to subtle misspellings or extra characters in the URL, which can be signs of phishing.
3. Use a Security App: Mobile security apps with QR code scanning capabilities can help identify malicious QR codes. These apps can warn you if a code directs you to a risky URL or attempts to download malware.
4. Be Wary of Unsolicited QR Codes: Avoid scanning QR codes that appear in unexpected places or are delivered unsolicited, such as through emails, text messages, or social media.
5. Disable Automatic Actions: Configure your device to prompt you before taking actions like visiting a URL or downloading a file when scanning a QR code. This can give you time to assess whether the action seems legitimate.
6. Check for HTTPS: When a QR code directs you to a website, ensure the URL starts with "https://" and not "http://". The "s" stands for secure, indicating the connection is encrypted.
7. Use Contactless Payments with Caution: If you're using QR codes for payment, double-check the payment details before confirming any transaction. If possible, use payment apps to review the recipient’s details before completing the transaction.
8. Educate Others: Share your knowledge about the risks of scanning QR codes in public spaces with friends, family, and colleagues. The more people are aware, the harder it becomes for scammers to succeed.

Awareness

While QR codes offer a convenient and contactless way to access information or perform transactions, they are not without risks. Awareness of the potential dangers and taking simple precautions can help protect you from falling victim to cybercriminals who exploit QR codes in public spaces. As a cybersecurity and technical support specialist, I encourage you to remain vigilant, verify the legitimacy of QR codes before scanning, and share these safety tips to help others stay secure in the digital world.

For more cybersecurity and technical support insights, visit JimGogarty.com and follow me on LinkedIn for the latest updates.