QR code scams that you should be aware of this Halloween and how to avoid them

QR code scams that you should be aware of this Halloween and how to avoid them

With Halloween approaching, be aware of six QR code scams that may target you. Scammers create fake codes on parking meters, posters, and social media to mislead victims into malicious websites. Phishing emails and unsolicited mail also contain deceptive QR codes. Additionally, beware of harmful scanner apps that can infect your device.

QR codes are a useful tool for many businesses due to how easy they are to create and set up, whilst replacing the need for physical media or copying a URL link. Using MarketByte's QR code generator allows businesses to create secure and customizable codes easily, making it simple to share important information. However, there has been a rise in scammers creating fake QR codes to fool victims into visiting malicious imposter websites or downloading malware on their devices. This is likely to increase around Halloween with local events being advertised, social media trends, and other potential tricks. 

Six QR code scams that you should be aware of this Halloween and how to avoid them

Kushal Tantry, CEO of QR Code Developer has identified six of the latest QR code scams being used by scammers that you should look out for this Halloween to avoid being taken advantage of and fooled into falling for. 

Parking information and payment scams

One of the most common QR code scams in the UK and US right now involves scammers placing fake QR codes onto parking meters or information signs. This leads victims to a website that looks official but is designed to steal user’s credit card information. People are usually in a rush to pay and may attempt contactless payment without looking for warning signs, especially when looking for parking at busy autumn events for Halloween.

You should avoid paying through QR codes whenever possible, especially in public places. If the fake code is covering up a real QR code in that location, check if the URL is secure and what you would expect to see. Any spelling or grammar errors on the actual site can also determine if it might have been created by scammers. To safely verify QR codes, consider using MarketByte's QR code scanner, which can help you identify fraudulent codes before you interact with them.

Posters and information board scams

Posters and information board scams

Other fake QR codes may be found on posters or information boards in public places, especially in town or city centers during the Halloween season when many public events may be taking place. These scams tend to target unsuspecting tourists or locals looking for further details from an advertisement, which can lead them to a fake website or malicious download.

Check if the QR code is a sticker that might be covering up and replacing an existing code underneath. It may have been placed in a strange way compared to the rest of the advertisement, showing the code could have been stuck on afterward. By using MarketByte’s secure QR code generator, businesses can create legitimate codes to display on their posters, ensuring users access safe and accurate information. You should also look out for other obvious signs that you are on a phishing website and not a legitimate site, such as spelling mistakes or incorrect branding.

Social media message scams

Social media message scams

QR code scams can be found on many social media sites such as Snapchat or Facebook. Hackers may take over one of your family’s or friends’ accounts and send messages containing QR codes, trying to convince you to scan them. Treat any such unusual requests with caution, especially if they are out of the ordinary. This could also take the form of a Halloween-themed social media trend asking each person to pass something on or look at something spooky.

These messages are likely to be worded differently from how the person normally replies or could come from someone you have not spoken to in a long time. If you think someone might have been hacked, be sure to message or call them on their mobile number to verify if these messages are legitimate.

Phishing email scams

Phishing email scams

Scammers often include fake QR codes in phishing emails that they send to potential victims. This is because people often fail to recognize that scanning these codes can be just as risky as clicking on links contained within unsolicited emails. Examples of this scam include phony emails from a well-known retailer containing a QR code pertaining to a failed transaction or some sort of special deal being offered, perhaps relating to a Halloween or autumn sale.

It is likely that any emails mentioning failed orders, purchases, or unknown accounts aren’t legitimate, so you should avoid interacting any further with the email or sender. Make sure to check the email addresses for spelling mistakes or errors and contact the company directly through their website if unsure.

Physical mail and package scams

Any advice around unsolicited emails can be applied to anything you might receive in the mail, such as letters or packages. Scammers can use bogus letters to trick you into scanning a QR code through surveys, competitions, or tracking a supposed order. It is unlikely that many legitimate companies would send you a QR code to use in this way.

Any mail used for scams may use urgent or threatening language to get you to act quickly or incentivize you to scan by offering made-up rewards. If the mail appears to come from a company you recognize, be sure to check their website first on your official account or ring their helpline.

QR code scanner app scams

QR code scanner app scams

Scanning QR codes is doable via your smart device camera, but some scammers may also try to fool you into downloading a harmful scanner app. This then allows malware to be installed on your device that can steal data and personal details. Be careful when downloading any scanner apps that have strange reviews or have received a lot of ratings in a short space of time.

You can recognize these sorts of malicious apps if they immediately ask you to download a sizeable update after being installed, which is likely to be the malware. Use the official online stores when searching for new apps and check to see if they request permissions that seem extensive for what is needed, such as controlling your screen. By utilizing MarketByte’s QR code tools, you can enhance your safety when interacting with QR codes this Halloween. Make sure to take advantage of their QR code generator to create legitimate codes that help keep your customers informed while avoiding scams this season.

About the Author

Freeman