Quick Response (QR) Codes are those black-and-white geometric squares that make it easy for us to connect to a website, buy a new sweater, or even reserve a table for dinner. But what are they really and is our personal information secure when we use them? Are QR codes safe?

What is a QR code and how do they work?

A QR code is similar to a barcode which stores information as a series of pixels in a grid. It can be used to quickly track information on products or services by a smartphone that uses a built-in QR reader. The data stored in a QR code can include website URLs, phone numbers, or up to 4,000 characters of text. Today’s QR codes can also perform tasks like checking your balance and transferring payments.

Are QR codes safe and can they be hacked?

QR codes are generally safe and cannot be hacked. However, because we cannot read QR codes with the naked eye, fraudsters can easily cover a legitimate QR code with a malicious one that will direct a victim to an alternate source. Unsuspecting users who scan the alternate QR code are taken to a malicious site. These sites can contain malware to track your location, install unwanted applications, or steal user credentials. Sometimes just visiting the website may infect your device. These hidden dangers are why we must stay vigilant.

What are common QR code scams?

• Printing fake QR codes – Fraudsters can create and print a QR code to scatter at businesses, restaurants or other public places that will take you to their fake site.
• Impersonating a business – Scammers will pretend to represent a business like a bank, streaming service or technical support and tell you there’s a problem with your account. They will send you a text or email that is embedded with a QR code that once scanned will give them access to your information. One common method is to sell phony sports or concert tickets to gain admission to your phone.
• Mail offers – Scammers can mail you a letter with a QR code offering debt forgiveness with big discounts.

How do I protect myself from QR code scams?

QR codes are part of our modern world and avoiding them altogether would be difficult and sometimes inconvenient. But are QR codes safe? They are, but always exercise caution when scanning QR codes. Locate a website using a search engine instead of the code. If you’re familiar with the source of the QR code, you are most likely safe; however, be sure to double check that the code square hasn’t been compromised. Don’t pay bills with QR codes and never trust a code sent by text or in an online post. Finally, don’t download an app from a QR code. Use the app store on your phone instead.