Scanning a QR code is not rocket science, anyone can use it. But do you know these QR codes can turn out to be a problem creator for you? With the increase in the number of users that pay online, cybercrime has also increased. Cybercriminals have started to use malicious QR codes to trick people. In the last few months, numerous cases have been reported related to online fraud. Among the renowned and most popular platforms, WhatsApp and OLX are the two main platforms that have been targeted.
Why QR code fraud?
The main goal of QR code fraud is to make the victims navigate to a page through which these cybercriminals can easily steal their money, data, and sometimes both. There are various kinds of QR scams, these are:
QR code phishing scamsOnline marketplace methodQR payment fraudQR code virusesQR code crypto scams
With the increase in the number of cases reported in the last few months regarding online fraud, it is necessary to know how to protect yourself from online fraud.
What if you become a victim of a QR code scam?
Of course, there is no way to get the money back that you lose in a QR code scam. But you can always be cautious about such scams. We strongly recommend you follow the instructions below if you ever feel that your bank account has been compromised.
Contact your bank ask them to immediately block your accountMake sure that you run a virus scan. This will help you to be sure that the malicious URL embedded in the QR code doesn’t contain malwareChange all the passwords of your accounts and other platforms if the QR code took you to some phishing website where you entered your passwords or any other personal informationReport the username of the scammer if they approached you on an online marketplace, website, or any appLast but not the least, press charges against the criminals. Doing this can help a lot of other people
Pro tip: always ensure that you secure all your online payment apps with a security code. Doing so will allow only the people who know the security code to have access to your account. It is important for all of us to stay alert when it comes to online frauds and cybercriminals. And don’t ever ‘scan a scam’.
