How to Safely Make QR Code Payments

Date: 23rd January 2025 | Read time: 2 Minutes

A convenient tool for digital payments, QR codes have, however, also caught the eye of fraudsters. In the last two years, QR code frauds have doubled as cybercriminals take advantage of the popularity of these codes to steal money and sensitive information. Here's a look at how QR code frauds work, the rise in cases, and how to protect yourself.

1. Counterfeit QR Codes:

Scammers attach fake QR codes on hoardings, posters, or even receipts. When scanned, these take the victim to a phishing website and ask for payment details.

2. Phishing Attacks:

Malicious QR codes can take users to fake payment gateways or phishing sites that steal personal and financial information.

3. Malware Download:

Some QR codes prompt users to download malware, which can compromise the device and steal sensitive information.

4. Tampered Payment QR Codes:

Criminals replace actual QR codes that exist at the POS terminals to take payments from customers to their accounts instead of the merchant.

1. Rise In Digital Payments:

As QR code-based contactless payments are being used more often, fraudsters look for easy ways to cash in on these opportunities.

2. Lack Of Awareness:

Many users have not yet educated themselves about risks involved in scanning QR codes and become easy victims of fraudsters.

1. Source:

Scan QR codes from known sources. Be wary of codes from spam emails or messages.

2. Criteria for a safe website:

Ensure that the site you are being redirected to is hosting its protocol on "https://" and it has a padlock symbol.

3. Ignore such offers that sound too good to be true:

For sure, scammers often use attractive offers to get users to scan their fraudulent QR codes.

4. Utilize safe QR code scanners:

Some of the QR scanners have security features embedded within them to warn if any code is suspicious.

• Be careful when scanning QR codes, especially from public spaces or unknown sources.
• Check the URL before entering any sensitive information.
• Keep your phone and apps updated to ensure you have the latest security features.
• Report any suspicious activity to your bank or payment provider immediately.

With QR codes becoming one of the popular methods for digital payments, the risk of fraud is still growing. Being watchful and adhering to the basics of safety practices will keep you from falling into the trap of QR code frauds. Before proceeding with a transaction, ensure that the source and destination are verified.

Scan safely, stay safe!