Search This Blog
Powered by Blogger.

Blog Archive

Labels

Footer About

Footer About

Labels

Load More
Trendy Right Now

Popular Posts

Showing posts with label QR Code Phishing. Show all posts
User Privacy
Cyber Scam FBI Alert Malicious Campaign QR Code Phishing User Privacy

FBI Alert: Avoid Scanning This QR Code on Your Phone

 

The FBI has issued a warning about a new scam in which cybercriminals send unsolicited packages containing a QR code to people’s homes, aiming to steal personal and financial information or install malware on their devices. These packages often lack sender information, making them seem mysterious and tempting to open. 

Modus operandi 

Scammers mail unexpected packages without sender information, deliberately creating curiosity that encourages recipients to scan the included QR code. Once scanned, the code either: 

  • Redirects users to fake websites requesting personal and financial information. 
  • Automatically downloads malicious software that steals data from phones.
  • Attempts to gain unauthorized access to device permissions.

This strategy is based on old "brushing scams," in which unscrupulous vendors send unsolicited products in order to generate fake positive feedback. The new variation uses QR codes to permit more serious financial theft, rather than simple review manipulation. 

Who is at risk?

Anyone who receives a surprise package—especially one without clear sender details—could be targeted. The scam exploits curiosity and the widespread, trusting use of QR codes for payments, menus, and other daily activities. 

Safety tips

  • Do not scan QR codes from unknown or unsolicited packages.
  • Be cautious of packages you didn’t order, especially those without sender information. 
  • Inspect links carefully if you do scan a QR code—look for suspicious URLs before proceeding. 
  • Secure your online accounts and consider requesting a free credit report if you suspect you’ve been targeted. 
  • Stay vigilant in public places, as scammers also place fake QR codes on parking meters and in stores. 

This warning comes amid a broader rise in sophisticated scams, including voice message attacks where criminals impersonate recognizable figures to encourage victim interaction. The FBI emphasizes that while QR codes may appear harmless, they can pose significant security risks when used maliciously. 
Read more »
Quishing Campaign
Cyber Fraud Cybersecurity measures Cybersecurity Warning Drivers QR code QR Code Phishing QR code scams QR code security Quishing Quishing Campaign

Parking Meter QR Code Scam Grows Nationwide as “Quishing” Threatens Drivers

 

A growing scam involving fake QR codes on parking meters is putting unsuspecting drivers at risk of financial fraud. This deceptive tactic—called “quishing,” a blend of “QR” and “phishing”—relies on tampered QR codes that redirect people to bogus websites designed to steal sensitive information like credit card details or vehicle data. 

The scam works in a surprisingly simple but effective way: fraudsters cover official QR codes on parking meters with nearly identical stickers that feature malicious codes. When scanned, the QR code does not lead to the authorized parking service’s payment portal but instead sends users to a counterfeit site. These phishing websites often look nearly identical to legitimate services, making them difficult to identify as fraudulent. Once there, victims are prompted to enter personal data that can later be misused to withdraw funds or commit identity theft.  

Recent reports have confirmed the presence of such manipulated QR codes on parking infrastructure in multiple cities, and similar schemes have also been spotted on electric vehicle charging stations. In one documented case, a victim unknowingly lost a four-figure amount after entering their payment information on a fake page. According to police authorities in Lower Saxony, Germany—where the scam has seen a surge—this type of attack is rapidly spreading and becoming a nationwide concern. 

Unlike phishing emails, which are often flagged by security software, QR codes are processed as images and generally bypass traditional cybersecurity defenses. This makes “quishing” harder to detect and potentially more dangerous, especially for users with outdated smartphone software. Because these scams exploit visual deception and technical limitations, the responsibility often falls on users to scrutinize QR codes closely before scanning.  

Experts recommend taking a few precautions to stay safe. First, inspect the QR code on the meter to ensure it hasn’t been tampered with or covered by a sticker. If anything appears off, avoid scanning it. For added security, users should download the official parking service app from an app store and enter location details manually. Using third-party QR code scanner apps that reveal the destination URL before opening it can also help prevent falling for a fake link. 

Anyone who believes they may have been scammed should act immediately by contacting their bank to block the card, reporting the incident to local authorities, and monitoring accounts for unauthorized activity. Law enforcement is urging users to stay alert as these scams become more common, especially in urban areas where mobile parking and EV charging stations are widely used.
Read more »
Technology
Payments QR code QR Code Phishing Quishing Technology

QR Code Phishing: How Cybercriminals Exploit Trust via Quishing


Today, QR codes have become a familiar sight. And why not, it makes our daily tasks easy. From making payments to accessing websites, these square patterns of black and white squares offer convenience and efficiency. However, cybercriminals have found a way to exploit this very convenience through a technique known as "quishing."

What is Quishing?

Quishing, short for "QR code phishing," involves using QR codes to deceive victims. Here's how it works:

Cybercriminals generate seemingly harmless QR codes that lead to fraudulent websites or initiate downloads of malicious software. These malicious QR codes can be distributed via emails, social media, printed materials, or even by placing stickers over legitimate QR codes in public spaces.

When someone scans the malicious QR code, they are directed to a deceptive website. The site may appear legitimate, offering discounts, special deals, or other enticing content. However, victims are unwittingly prompted to provide sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial details. In some cases, malware is downloaded, compromising the victim's device and network.

Recent Trends

One notable trend involves the use of crypto ATMs and QR codes. The FBI has reported an increase in scammers instructing victims to use physical crypto ATMs for payment transactions. Fraudsters manipulate victims into making payments and guide them to cryptocurrency ATMs. The given QR code automatically fills in the recipient's address, making the process seem legitimate.

Prevention Tips

Be Cautious: Only scan QR codes from trusted sources. Avoid scanning random codes in public places. Double-check the URL before providing any information on a website. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Use a QR Code Scanner App: Opt for a reputable QR code scanner app that checks URLs for authenticity. Some apps provide warnings if a code leads to a suspicious site.

Stay Informed: Keep up with security news and trends. Educate yourself and your team about the risks of quishing.

Moving Forward

QR codes—those pixelated portals to convenience—can also harbor danger. As you scan, tread cautiously. Verify sources, question context, and guard your trust. Remember, not all codes lead to safety. 

Read more »
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)