QR codes have become increasingly popular for quickly accessing information or downloading apps. However, this convenience has also led to a new cyberattack known as QR jacking or 'Quishing'. QR jacking involves malicious actors replacing legitimate QR codes with ones that lead to fraudulent websites or apps, allowing them to steal sensitive information or install malware onto a victim's device.
What is QR Jacking?
QR jacking is a phishing attack that exploits people's trust in QR codes. In a typical scenario, a hacker will create a fake QR code that looks identical to a legitimate one. They might place this code in a public location, such as on a poster or billboard, or send it to potential victims via email, social media, or messaging apps. When the victim scans the code with their smartphone, they are directed to a fake website or app that looks real. Once there, the hacker can trick the victim into entering sensitive information, such as login credentials, credit card numbers, or personal data. Alternatively, the fake website might contain malware that installs itself on the victim's device, giving the hacker full access to their files, contacts, and other data.
Precautions Against QR Jacking
QR jacking is a severe threat, but there are several steps you can take to protect yourself. Here are some precautions you should keep in mind:
- Verify the source: Before scanning a QR code, ensure you know where it comes from. If you're in a public place and see a QR code, try to verify that it belongs to a legitimate business or organisation. If you receive a code via email or social media, make sure it comes from a trusted source. If you need more clarification, it's better to err on the side of caution and not scan the code at all.
- Use a QR code scanner app: Instead of using your smartphone's built-in camera app to scan QR codes, consider using a dedicated QR code scanner app. These apps are designed to detect and warn you about potentially fraudulent codes, giving you an extra layer of protection.
- Stay up to date: Make sure your smartphone's operating system and apps are always up to date. This can help protect against vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit to launch QR jacking attacks. Additionally, keeping your antivirus software up to date can help detect and remove any malware that might have made its way onto your device.
- Be cautious with personal information: Avoid entering sensitive information, such as login credentials or credit card numbers, on any website or app you access via a QR code. If you need help determining whether a site or app is legitimate, try accessing it directly by typing in the URL instead of scanning a code.
- Be wary of requests for permissions: When you scan a QR code, you might be prompted to grant specific permissions to the app that opens. Be cautious about giving permissions that seem unnecessary or overly broad. For example, an app that asks for access to your camera, microphone, and contacts might be trying to harvest your data.
QR jacking is a growing threat that can compromise your personal information and your device's security. However, by taking some simple precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to this attack. Always be cautious when scanning QR codes, and take steps to protect yourself and your devices. You can keep your data and devices safe from harm by staying vigilant and up to date.