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Beware the Double Click! Evaluate QR Codes to Protect Against Fraud july / august 2025
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( StatePoint) Ancient civilizations had hieroglyphics, we have QR codes: the patterned graphic boxes prompting you to access restaurant menus, pay for parking, find out information about a package and more.
Generally, quick response( QR) codes are safe, but they can be used to redirect you to malicious websites, so caution is important. Here’ s how it works.
• You get prompted to use your device’ s camera.
• You scan the code and a link pops up.
• You click the link, exposing you to threat actors.
• You’ re directed to apps, websites, locations using your maps and much more.
Bad actors understand people are in a rush, so this is an appealing form of attack. It’ s a cost-efficient scam because these codes are easy to generate and distribute. And they are creative in finding new ways to make them appear legitimate. In public places, criminals can cover an official code with a sticker or printout showing a fraudulent code. Some of the more prevalent and convincing scams include:
• Parking Ticket Scams. Criminals place fake parking tickets with QR codes on windshields, causing unsuspecting victims to scan the code and click the link to learn of their offense and digitally pay the alleged fine.
• Brushing Scams. A criminal will ship goods you never