4 Ways Scanning QR Codes Can Expose You to Security Threats

We’re all used to quickly getting information by scanning a QR code. We see them everywhere these days, in restaurants, in shop windows and even on our TV screens but they’re also a security and privacy risk.

The technology behind QR codes makes it possible to access information without browsing online or entering a search query on Google. All you need to do is point your phone camera at the code, and you instantly get the info you need. However, despite the speed and ease of accessing information with QR codes, you should be wary of pointing your device at just any black and white square.

What Is a QR Code?
A QR code is a two-dimensional matrix code that stores data in dots typically arranged in a squared grid. This code is readable using your phone camera or app designed to scan and read QR codes.

Why Use QR Codes?
QR codes make it possible to overcome the limitations of arranging information in small spaces. But there are other reasons to use a QR code to, for instance, share your contact details, use WhatsApp on the web, and save costs on advertising your event, product, or service. Many businesses also use QR codes to stamp their products with verifiable e-certificates.

4 Potential Dangers of Scanning QR Codes
Despite the usefulness of QR codes, their very nature makes them exploitable. Scanning QR codes from untrusted sources can expose you to numerous security threats…

1. Malware Attacks
Scammers can easily create a QR code, add the logo for the Google or Apple app stores, and paste them wherever. Scanning such QR codes can trigger your device to automatically take action, like downloading an app from a fake website. These actions can also introduce malware into your device without you knowing.

2. Phishing Attacks
Also known as “QRishing,” there are several ways scanning a QR code can expose you to phishing. For example, scanning a code can open your web browser to a URL that resembles an online shopping site or bank, with prompts to log in with your email address and passwords.

These fake websites resemble the real ones, so you may not notice the difference right away. Some even have URL addresses that look like the real thing at a glance. When you enter your login details on these websites, the data gets sent to a scammer on the other end. The scammer may then use those details to access your account.

3. Your Location Might be Compromised
If you have ever needed to get an event location quickly, you’ll know how helpful scanning a Google Maps QR Code can be. However, scanning a QR code can automatically collect your approximate location and send it to a third party, violating your location privacy.

4. Unscrupulous Third Parties Could Get Your Personal Information
Scanning a QR Code can trigger your phone to make a phone call or send a text to a cell number. This shares your number with a third party. It may seem harmless, but your phone number is tied to your personal information in more ways than you can imagine. There are online tools anyone can use to identify the owner of a phone number, including their full name, address, social media profile, and other publicly available information.

How to Avoid QR Code Security Threats
Scanning a fake QR code can put your privacy and online security at risk, but there are measures you can take to avoid or stop the potential security threats.

Avoid Scanning Random QR Codes
You should avoid scanning QR codes from random websites, public spaces, or unofficial pages on social media. Social engineering is one of the most common ways cybercriminals get victims to breach their own security without a second thought.

Install an Antivirus for Additional Security
You should also consider installing an antivirus on your phone. An antivirus app can alert you when you visit a phishing website or block your device from downloading malware.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication on Your Accounts
You should also enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on all your accounts. 2FA adds an extra layer of defense against unauthorized access to your accounts. This way, they remain secure even if a third party somehow gets your login details.

Turn Off Live Location
Keeping your device location enabled can help you trace your lost phone and set reminders for what you want to do whenever you’re out somewhere. However, your phone collates a list of places you’ve been. A hacker could access this location information if your device becomes compromised; say, when you scan a malicious QR code.

Keep Your Devices Updated
To some extent, the safety of a QR code is outside your control. However, your device security and your personal security remains within your control. Software companies and hardware manufacturers release regular security updates to fix loopholes that cybercriminals can exploit in software (or even hardware). Keeping your devices updated with the latest security patches can help you avoid potential security threats associated with scanning bogus QR codes.