Scammers are using fake QR codes in an attempt to cash in.
According to the FBI, scammers are utilizing QR codes in attempts to make money from unsuspecting victims. As the codes become more popular, the FBI has issued a warning to the general public.
"The FBI is issuing this announcement to raise awareness of malicious Quick Response (QR) codes. Cybercriminals are tampering with QR codes to redirect victims to malicious sites that steal login and financial information," wrote the Bureau in the PSA.
"Cybercriminals tamper with both digital and physical QR codes to replace legitimate codes with malicious codes," added the FBI. "A victim scans what they think to be a legitimate code but the tampered code directs victims to a malicious site, which prompts them to enter login and financial information. Access to this victim information gives the cybercriminal the ability to potentially steal funds through victim accounts."
In order to help protect oneself from these fake QR codes, the FBI offers the following tips:
- When you scan a QR code, check to make sure the URL is the intended site and looks authentic. Malicious domain names may be similar to the intended URL but with typos or misplaced letters.
- Ensure the code has not been tampered with, such as with a sticker placed on top of the original code.
- Do not download an app from a QR code. Use your phone's app store for a safer download.