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Fraud Awareness: QR Code Scams

What is a QR Code?

A QR code is a type of barcode containing data such as links to a website, phone numbers, account information or coupons. Quick response (QR) code phishing, or “quishing”, is a technique where scammers trick victims into scanning a malicious QR code. Fraudsters use these QR codes to steal personal information or money, download malware, or gain access to a device. 
As the use of QR codes continues to increase, so does QR code phishing. A report from Abnormal Security noted that small to medium sized business are 19 times more likely to receive a QR code phishing attack than larger enterprises. Cybercriminals embed QR codes in PNG files or PDF attachments, which help them slip past email security filters undetected.

How to Avoid a QR Code Scam:

  • Inspect the QR Code: Check the QR code to ensure it has not been altered or tampered with before scanning it.
  • Check the Link Preview: Double check the preview of the QR code link. Look for a padlock symbol and an address that begins with https:// indicating it is a secure site. 
  • Examine the Surrounding Content: Examine the words around the QR code for misspellings, bad grammar, poor features, or a design that does not match the company it is purporting to represent.
  • Verify the Sender: Carefully inspect the senders email address. Verify the legitimacy of the message or attachment (and any embedded QR codes) via another means, such as a text message or phone call.
  • Watch Out for Fraudulent QR Codes: If the QR code is in a public place, like a restaurant or coffee shop, ask a staff member if the QR code is legitimate.
  • Be Cautious with Personal Information: Think twice if the website you are directed to asks for personal details or payment information.
  • Install Anti-Virus Software: Install anti-virus software and keep it up to date to help avoid malware from being downloaded to your device. 


Your security is our top priority. We will never contact you asking for your financial or personal information or ask a third party to log in to your computer to unlock your access. If you receive a message requesting confidential information that claims to be from us, do not click any links. Instead, contact us at [email protected] or 725.291.4900 immediately. It is critical to share this information with your team and continue to foster a vigilant workforce with regular training to help safeguard your business. A well-informed workforce is your best defense against cyber threats.