QR Codes: Scan Smart, Stay Safe

Category: Everyday Cyber Awareness | By ipingU Managed Security Services LLP

Wed Jul 23, 2025

QR codes are everywhere — restaurant menus, event tickets, online payments, and advertisements. They’re quick and convenient. But did you know that cybercriminals are now using fake QR codes to steal your money or personal data?


What’s the Risk? Cybercriminals can replace real QR codes with malicious ones. When scanned, these fake codes may:
  • Take you to a fake payment page
  • Install malware on your phone
  • Collect sensitive details like login credentials or bank info

Real-Life Example A person parks at a public lot and sees a QR code pasted on the meter to “Pay Online.” They scan it and enter their card details — only to realize later that the QR code was fake, and the money went to a scammer.
How to Stay Safe with QR Codes
  • Don’t scan random QR codes from flyers, posters, or public walls
  • Check for signs of tampering — some fake codes are pasted over the original
  • Avoid entering personal info after scanning, unless you're sure it's a trusted source
  • Use your mobile banking app directly, not through a QR scanned link
  • Update your device regularly to protect against exploits and malware

How ipingU MSS Helps At ipingU Managed Security Services LLP, we focus on protecting your digital journey. We help organizations train their teams to recognize these evolving threats and implement security measures to stay ahead of scammers. Cybercriminals rely on speed and distraction. With the right awareness, you can stop them before they even start.

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