QR Code Scams

Scams are evil deceptions that attempt to steal personal information or trick innocent people out of money. Though scams can happen to anyone of any age, seniors need to be especially vigilant.  Learn why seniors must maintain increased awareness to protect themselves.

There’s both bad and good news…

Here’s the bad news – Senior citizens are increasingly vulnerable to scams for several reasons. Older people who are isolated or facing cognitive declines due to aging become easy targets. Scammers also follow the money. They tend to go after seniors with life savings.

Here’s the good news – Though scams are a sad reality we all face; folks are not totally helpless. Learning how to recognize and avoid scams is key to protecting one’s money and identity.

Why worry about scams?

Nowadays, most people use computers and cell phones regularly. These devices give scammers direct access to people – making everyone susceptible to fraud. Scammers can directly reach prospective victims via calling, texting, and emailing. QR codes are also now being used to scam people. Read on to learn more!

What are some basic scam prevention tips?

Scams can be elaborate and convincing, so it’s important to stay on guard to avoid becoming a victim. Here are some general safety steps you can take:

Using secure devices with strong passwords, protecting and monitoring accounts, blocking unknown calls/emails/texts, and keeping information private are some helpful strategies to stay scam-free. Avoiding QR code scams is also important!

The rise of QR code scams!

QR code scams are increasing. Here’s what you need to know:

What are QR codes?

QR or “quick response” codes are two-dimensional matrix barcodes. (They are those black and white square barcodes you frequently see at restaurants, on parking meters, at business and online sign-ins, on tickets, and even on TV screens for access to recipes or products.)  QR codes are useful when legitimate – but they also can expose people to scams.

How do QR codes work?

People scan these machine-readable barcodes via a smartphone’s camera to offer quick access to data that is specific to the label.

What actions do QR codes perform?

Per Cyber.gc.ca, once scanned, the decoded text of the QR code can trigger actions such as:

• Opening a website
• Downloading an app
• Joining a Wi-Fi network
• Verifying information
• Creating a contact
• Sending an email or message
• Dialing a phone number

What are QR code scams?

QR code scams are those which involve the use of QR codes to perpetuate fraud.

How do QR code scams work?

While scanning barcodes from reliable sources is likely safe, there is the potential for fraudsters to mess with the codes. An unsuspecting victim will scan a code that takes them to a phishing website. This will capture their personal information, like their name and address. It may even access their personal accounts and credit card information. Or it may infect their device with malware.

QR code risk potential

Due to risks involved, only use a QR code if you are certain it comes from a reliable source.

More helpful info:

• Whenever possible, use safe browsing mode and a browser with anti-tracking features.
• Configure your device to seek permission/verification before launching QR code action.
• When using QR codes, always verify website URLs/web addresses.
• If you are suspicious of the code or you cannot fully trust the sender, assume that the code is UNSAFE. Do not use it.
• If you see that a QR code looks tampered with or taped over, assume it is UNSAFE. Do not use it.

Please see our related article entitled Common QR code scams for examples of scams to watch out for!

Disclosure: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice.