QR code scam

What is a QR Code scam? Learn about ‘Quishing’ and how to stay safe.

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QR code scams

QR Code scams :- Quishing entails deceiving individuals by presenting an action as harmless or essential, while the actual intention is malicious, aiming to gain access to personal information, bank credentials, and other sensitive data.

The rising trend of online payments has provided scammers with multiple opportunities to employ their skills on any one of us.

Cybercrime has evolved into a side hustle for many young individuals in India, where numerous people have fallen victim to online money scams. Traditional tactics involving phone calls and fake scenarios have taken on a new, faceless form, with online platforms enticing individuals with promises of better exchange rates. The growing trend of online payments has created ample opportunities for scammers to practice their deceptive skills on unsuspecting victims.

Phishing, an enduring threat that has taken on various forms over time, has now embraced a new strategy called “quishing,” exploiting QR codes for deceptive purposes. With QR codes being widely used for instant access to information, people often scan them without verifying their authenticity.

Taking advantage of this extensive usage, cybercriminals generate fake QR codes, directing unsuspecting individuals to spoofed websites where their information is stolen or malware is installed on their devices. Quishing entails deceiving people into believing an action is harmless or necessary, while the actual intent is malicious – aiming to obtain personal information, pilfer bank credentials, and more.
Fraudsters use strategies like sending deceptive emails impersonating banks, alleging that debit/credit cards or bank accounts are nearing expiration. Recipients are urged to scan a QR code for renewal, but the details provided are transmitted to scammers who exploit them to gain access to bank accounts.

QR CODE SCAM :-How to protect ourselves?

To guard against QR code scams, it’s recommended to exercise caution while scanning codes. QR codes are primarily intended for sending money, not receiving it. If someone promises money for scanning a QR code, skepticism is warranted. When in public spaces, it’s advisable to confirm with vendors which QR code to use for payments, as multiple codes might be available, and some could be fraudulent.

When participating in online marketplace transactions, it’s advisable to refrain from scanning QR codes unless it’s for a legitimate purchase, preferably paid in cash. If someone becomes a victim of a QR code scam, swift action is crucial – contacting the bank immediately to report the incident and possibly temporarily blocking the account if unauthorized access is suspected.

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