This is a devious scam that can affect even the most paranoid of us. This is because of the simplicity of the QR code itself. This scam can install a virus to your device, or redirect you to the scammer’s website – all without you knowing. They are expecting to rely on the convenience that the QR code provides, and the ease of adoption by the general public. This is not to say that all QR codes are bad. In a matter of fact, many of them are legitimate. But since you can’t physically read a QR code, there is no real way to avoid it but to be hyper-vigilant when you are actually using it.
So how does this work? Well, the scammer will use a sticker with their QR code on it, and place it over the authenticate QR code. The QR code looks to be valid, and as mentioned, you can’t physically read the QR code, so you have to trust that the code is valid. This requires a little research on the criminal’s part as they will have to know how the QR code they are placing their sticker over will work. Some codes may redirect you to an app, while others may redirect you to a website. Once the criminal figures how the code works, they make a fake app, or a fake website that looks authentic, and valid. They are then hoping that the user will not notice any difference.
So how do you avoid this scam? First, if you need a parking app, or transit app, you should go directly to your App Store, look for the app you need, and validate that the app is authentic. Do not just trust the app you are redirected to even though it might look the same. Make sure the author of the app is legitimate. If you go to a restaurant, then ask for a physical menu. If they direct you to the QR code, insist on a menu. If they still won’t give you a menu, then go directly to their website without using the QR code. And then consider other options for future outings. Make sure you let the manager know that you are not happy with not being given the option for a physical menu. If they see enough people not coming back because of a menu issue, they will invest the money for menus, and laminate them so they don’t get mangled.