Cyber Crime
The Dark Side of QR Codes: How Scammers Are Turning Convenience into Chaos
In her insightful article on QR code scams, Chhavi Lamba, Author of newsletter FraudBuster’s Chronicles, masterfully unpacks the nuances of this growing threat, shedding light on the tactics used and how to stay protected. In the present article she talks about the QR code scam. QR codes have gone from marketing underdogs to the Beyoncé of tech convenience, revolutionizing everything from payments to restaurant menus. But while we’ve been scanning for discounts and extra guac, scammers have been scanning us.
Welcome to the shadowy world of QR code scams, where those innocent black-and-white squares can steal your money, personal data, and peace of mind.
ALSO READ: Nominate Top Cyber Journalists for FutureCrime Summit 2025 Awards
How Scammers Exploit QR Codes
QR codes are a gateway to information, typically URLs, but that simplicity is also their weakness. Fraudsters manipulate them in clever ways:
- QR Code Swapping: Replacing legitimate codes with fake ones on parking meters, menus, or public signs.
- Fake Campaigns: Promising discounts or prizes but redirecting to phishing sites.
- Phishing Emails: Embedding malicious QR codes to steal sensitive information.
- Public Code Hijacking: Placing fake codes in public spaces to lure unsuspecting users.
Alarming Stats on QR Code Scams
- 66% Surge: Global QR code phishing attacks have skyrocketed since 2022, fueled by widespread adoption.
- $135 Million Lost: In 2024 alone, QR scams caused massive global losses, with payment fraud dominating.
- India’s Rs 650 Crore Crisis: The rise of UPI payments has made India a hotspot for QR-related fraud.
ALSO READ : Call for Papers on AI/ML in Predictive Policing and Digital Forensics for FutureCrime Summit 2025
Real-Life Horror Stories
- Restaurant Rip-Offs: Fake QR codes on menus duped diners into entering payment details on phishing sites.
- Crypto Chaos: Scammers drained wallets by redirecting crypto users to fraudulent platforms.
- Parking Lot Fraud: Drivers in Texas unknowingly scanned fake codes, leading to unauthorized charges.
How to Outsmart QR Code Scammers
- Inspect Before Scanning: Check for tampered or misplaced codes.
- Preview Links: Use apps that reveal where a QR code leads before opening it.
- Verify with the Source: Confirm QR codes with staff at restaurants or parking lots.
- Stay Updated: Keep your phone’s security patches current and use antivirus apps.
QR codes are a brilliant convenience, but they’re also a playground for scammers. Stay sharp, and remember: not all squares are safe to scan!
About The Author: Chhavi Lamba, author of the newsletter FraudBuster’s Chronicles
