QR codes are being scanned and used by more and more people lately. These simple yet effective square-shaped codes represent a technology that can store various information and is easily accessible. So, what is a QR code and how is it used?
What is QR code? Is it safe to use?
Invented in 1994, QR codes didn’t become popular until a decade later, according to ExpressVPN’s research. Developed in Japan, these codes are usually in the form of a square with a black and white pattern. Also, QR code is an abbreviation for “Quick Response”.
QR codes are scanned by mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets, allowing the information they contain to be read quickly. This information can be a website URL, a contact information, a promotional code or any text.
The popularity of QR codes has increased in recent years and people are scanning more. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, QR codes were used in restaurants, shops and other public spaces to minimize contact and comply with hygiene rules. However, with the widespread use of QR codes, some potential dangers have emerged that we should be aware of.
‘QR code’ warning from cyber security experts
Experts warned against QR codes that became widespread with the pandemic. ‘Think twice before scanning’ was said.
Fraudsters are developing new methods to deceive people by taking advantage of QR codes. They aim to steal users’ information by faking restaurant QR codes, creating fake QR codes or infecting them with malicious software. That’s why it’s so important to be careful when scanning QR codes.
It is also necessary to be careful about public Wi-Fi networks or sharing network access with others. Hackers can monitor users’ internet traffic and capture confidential information through fake Wi-Fi networks. Therefore, you should choose Wi-Fi networks that you trust and know to be safe.
Smart packaging can also harbor hidden dangers. While scanning the QR codes on the packaging of the products, it is necessary not to download applications or links from unknown sources. Because using QR codes or apps that contain malicious software may put your personal information at risk.
There are also dark aspects to financial QR code transactions. We often come across scammers trying to steal money from people’s bank accounts via fake QR codes. That’s why you should make sure to scan QR codes carefully when making financial transactions and payments.
Finally, QR codes are also used in healthcare and medical fraud. We see scammers deceiving people using forged QR codes of counterfeit drugs. Therefore, when scanning the QR codes of medical products, you should make sure that you buy them from sources you trust.
Here are some tips to stay safe and take precautions when scanning QR codes:
- Use an up-to-date antivirus program on your smartphone and regularly check for updates.
- Download the apps to scan the QR code from sources you trust.
- When scanning QR codes, carefully check the URL of the website the application will open and choose the sites you trust.
- After scanning the QR code, you can use the search engine as an additional step to verify the provided links or app downloads.
- Make sure you are in a safe environment around you and be careful when scanning QR codes, especially in financial transactions.
In this news, we answered the questions of what is a QR code and what should we pay attention to when using it. What do you think about this subject? Don’t forget to share your views with us in the comments!