Would You Fall For This QR Code Scam? Research Reveals Likely Victims
Explore how scammers misuse QR codes, why they work so well in social engineering, and which behaviors make people more vulnerable.
How QR Code Scams Work
QR codes are just visual representations of data—usually URLs. Attackers exploit the fact that people cannot easily read a QR code at a glance, pairing it with convincing physical or digital context. For example, a malicious code might be placed over a parking meter sticker, leading victims to a fake payment page that harvests card details.
Because scanning QR codes feels low‑effort and routine, many people skip the usual checks they apply to email links. That makes QR codes a powerful tool for phishing and credential theft, especially on mobile devices where address bars are small and easy to overlook.
Staying Safe When Scanning QR Codes
Before scanning, consider whether the QR code belongs to someone you trust: a printed restaurant menu, a company poster, or a random flyer on a lamppost all carry different risk levels. After scanning, inspect the URL carefully before you tap to open it—most camera apps show a preview.
Avoid entering passwords or payment details on sites opened from QR codes unless you can verify the address independently. Where available, use built‑in browser protections and password managers, which can refuse to auto‑fill credentials on impostor sites with mismatched domains.