Are QR Codes Safe? How to Spot and Avoid Malicious Codes

QR codes are everywhere—on menus, posters, and payment terminals. They are incredibly convenient, but this convenience has also attracted the attention of scammers. A malicious QR code, a practice known as 'quishing' (QR code phishing), can trick you into visiting a harmful website, downloading malware, or giving away your personal information.

The good news is that staying safe is easy if you know what to look for. This guide will teach you how to use QR codes confidently and securely.

How Do Malicious QR Codes Work?

A QR code itself is not dangerous; it's just a way of storing text, like a URL. The danger lies in where the QR code sends you.

Scammers create QR codes that link to:

• Phishing Websites: Fake websites that look like your bank, a social media site, or an online store, designed to steal your login credentials.
• Malware Downloads: A link that automatically tries to download a malicious app or file to your device.
• Payment Scams: A link that directs you to a fake payment page to steal your credit card information.

How to Spot a Potentially Malicious QR Code

Always approach QR codes from unknown sources with a healthy dose of skepticism. Here are the biggest red flags:

1. A Sticker Placed Over Another QR Code

This is the most common scam. Scammers will go to a public place, like a parking meter or a restaurant, and place a sticker with their malicious QR code directly on top of the legitimate one. If you see a QR code that looks like a sticker placed on top of another, do not scan it. Alert the business owner.

2. A Sense of Urgency or Unbelievable Offers

Scammers often use language that creates a sense of panic or excitement. Be wary of QR codes next to text like:

• "Your account is suspended! Scan here to fix it!"
• "You've won a free prize! Scan to claim!"
• "Payment failed! Scan immediately to avoid a fine!"

Legitimate companies rarely use such urgent and threatening language in public spaces.

3. Shortened or Obscure URLs

Most modern smartphones will show you a preview of the URL before you open it. Pay attention to this preview!

• Look for familiar domains: paypal.com, yourbank.com, instagram.com.
• Be suspicious of URL shorteners: Links from services like bit.ly or tinyurl.com can be legitimate, but scammers often use them to hide the true destination. Be extra cautious.
• Check for typos: Scammers might use a domain like paypa1.com or your-bank-login.com to trick you. Look closely for spelling errors.

How to Protect Yourself

• Preview the Link: Never blindly tap 'Open' after scanning. Always look at the URL preview your phone shows you.
• Think About the Context: Does it make sense for a QR code to be here? A QR code for a menu inside a restaurant is expected. A random QR code sticker on a lamp post is suspicious.
• Don't Download Apps: A QR code should never prompt you to download an application from anywhere other than the official Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
• Never Enter Passwords: Be extremely cautious if a QR code takes you to a login page. It's almost always safer to navigate to the website manually by typing the URL yourself.

QR codes are a safe and useful technology when used with a little bit of awareness. By staying vigilant, you can enjoy the convenience without the risk.