Here's What to Check When Scanning a Qr Code to Avoid Scams and Hacks

While QR codes are convenient, they can also hide significant dangers. Many scammers now use them to trick people. Don't get caught out!

QR codes are everywhere in our daily lives, on packaging, ads, food and non-food products, restaurants, hotels, and public Wi-Fi zones. They're useful for providing more information about a product or service, or for automatically connecting your smartphone to a Wi-Fi network without needing a complicated password. You just point your phone's camera at it, and a webpage or app opens. But this can put your personal data at risk.

A QR code is essentially a graphic shortcut that your camera software understands. It usually hides a website URL but can also contain information to download a file or connect your phone to a Wi-Fi network.

When you scan a QR code, very little information appears on your screen. Typically, if it's a website, only the beginning of the URL is shown, and all it takes is one tap to open the site. However, taking one extra step can help you avoid connecting to a suspicious site or downloading malware.

Instead of tapping the URL immediately after scanning a QR code, it's better to double check. On Android, press the small arrow pointing up at the end of the address. On iPhone, tap the QR code icon next to the address. The full URL will be displayed, allowing you to verify it isn't suspicious. If unsure, you can copy and paste the URL into a verification service like VirusTotal, which will alert you to potential phishing or scam attempts.

Also, be cautious of QR codes that automatically connect you to a public Wi-Fi network. There's no way to guarantee that the free network isn't set up by a hacker looking to steal data from your phone. Unfortunately, in this case, there's no verification method, except to ask the location owner if they're truly providing that Wi-Fi network.

To stay safe, avoid scanning random QR codes, especially in public places. Stick to trusted sources. Keep your phone's security software updated, and check your browsing activity for anything unusual. If you often use public Wi-Fi, consider using a VPN to protect your data. Being cautious when using QR codes can help you avoid scams or malware.