Protecting yourself from QR code fraud
•April 24, 2024•
By Ileana Saveley
Social Security District
Manager in Decatur, IL
Quick Response codes, better known as QR codes, are a very popular way to get information. QR codes are scannable barcodes that will direct you to a website. However, scammers can create QR codes to trick people into visiting a fraudulent website or downloading malware that compromises their personal information.
For example, scammers may:
• Cover official QR codes with fake ones on parking meters, menus, or magazines.
• Send QR codes via email or text message pretending to be from delivery companies.