Beware of quishing: tips for protection against fraudulent QR codes

Beware of quishing: tips for protection against fraudulent QR codes

The Consumer Center NRW has published an urgent warning to inform the public about new fraud methods that are increasingly spreading.

In the Rhein-Erft district, scanning of QR codes has become normal practice, be it to read the latest menus or to access the bank accounts. But a new fraud, known as "quishing", pulls dark shadows over this supposedly harmless technology.

Quishing is a term that is composed of the words QR code and phishing. Phishing refers to the attempt to steal personal information such as passwords. The fraudsters not only use digital means, but also combine them with traditional methods to deceive victims.

An example: Criminal manipulation QR codes in public places by gluing them over or sending falsified letters from banks. Unsuspecting people can easily be directed to a fake website that follows malicious intentions.

dangers in QR codes

If you scan a QR code, a website connected with it often opens. Although this is very practical, it also carries considerable risks. The consumer advice center recommends scanning QR codes only if you are sure where to go. It should be avoided that the smartphone automatically accesses links that may be dangerous.

With a special app you can display the link before opening. This can be checked whether the link is legitimate. If there are uncertainties, the website should never be opened because these steps can be decisive to protect personal data.

special caution is also required in letters for the QR codes. Bank communications that appear serious at first glance can also be fake. In such a letter, it is advisable to check authenticity by contacting the bank. The contacts should be made via official channels, such as the bank's website, to ensure that no further data gets into the wrong hands.

protective measures for drivers

also drivers have to be careful when scanning QR codes, especially on electric charging stations or for alleged penalty notes. Cybercriminals often use these opportunities to steal money using fake codes. They glue the real QR codes or leave false parking tickets to achieve transfers.

Here it is important to check whether a QR code has not been manipulated. In case of doubt, the police should also be contacted to ensure that no false sanctions have been pronounced and that the financial transactions are secure.

Anyone who fell for a fraud stitch should immediately turn on the police and, if necessary, inform their bank. The consumer center provides indications that certain indicators often indicate an attempted fraud, such as a lack of personal salutation or pressure to act immediately.

For more information on specific fraud cases and how to protect yourself from it, the consumer center NRW online offers help. It is essential to be informed about current fraud and not to be blinded by supposedly safe offers.