This could have been a malicious QR code!
Did you know that QR code scams are on the rise? Don't let your guard down with QR codes. As they've experienced a resurgence in the contactless arena, pay close attention to what you are scanning.
Consider the source of the QR code.
- Is it from a person or organization you trust? (Thankfully, you can trust us! This isn't a compromised webpage.)
- Don't scan any random codes on places like streetlamps or parking meters.
- Think twice before you scan a QR code found in emails that seem to come from organizations or people you know. Enable multifactor authentication on all your accounts to prevent theft of your login credentials.
Has the QR code been tampered with?
- Some restaurants offer contactless payments and put codes on the table. Make sure that there isn't a sticker or other QR code that has been taped onto the original code!
Don't download a separate QR code scanner app.
- Installing a 3rd party app increases your risk of downloading malware onto your phone. While QR apps were common 3-5 years ago, most smartphones today have a built-in scanner through the camera app.
Once you scan the code, look at the landing page.
- A malicious domain name may be similar to the intended URL but have typos or a misplaced letter.
- Carefully read the URL and make sure it seems legitimate, especially if you enter personal identifying information.
- Avoid making payments through a webpage navigated from a QR code. Instead, manually enter a known and trusted URL to complete the payment.