Are QR Codes Safe? Security Risks and How to Stay Protected

QR codes are incredibly convenient, but they can also be used by criminals to steal your data, install malware, or trick you into visiting malicious websites. Here's what you need to know about QR code security.

Are QR Codes Themselves Dangerous?

QR codes themselves are not inherently dangerous—they're simply a way to encode information. The risk comes from what the QR code links to. A QR code can redirect you to a malicious website, trigger a malware download, or trick you into entering sensitive information.

The key issue is that humans cannot read QR codes—you don't know where a code leads until you scan it. This makes it easy for attackers to disguise malicious links.

Common QR Code Security Threats

1. Quishing (QR Code Phishing)

Since mid-2023, there's been a significant rise in "quishing"—phishing attacks using QR codes. Attackers send emails with QR codes that lead to fake login pages designed to steal your credentials for banking, email, or work accounts.

2. Malware Distribution

QR codes can link to websites that automatically download malware to your device. This can happen even without clicking anything if the site exploits browser vulnerabilities.

3. Payment Fraud

Criminals place fake QR codes over legitimate payment codes. In Austin, Texas, police found 29 fraudulent QR codes on parking meters that sent payment information to scammers instead of the city.

4. Physical Code Replacement

Attackers place stickers with malicious QR codes over legitimate ones on posters, restaurant menus, parking meters, or public signs.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Check the URL Before Tapping

When you scan a QR code, your phone shows a preview of the URL. Always check this preview before tapping. Look for suspicious domains, misspellings (like "paypa1.com" instead of "paypal.com"), or unusual URLs.

2. Use Your Phone's Built-in Scanner

Don't download third-party QR scanner apps—some are malware in disguise. Your iPhone and Android camera apps have built-in QR scanning that's safe to use.

3. Be Suspicious of Physical Codes

Feel the QR code—is it a sticker placed over another code? Does it look out of place? Be extra cautious with QR codes in public locations, especially for payments.

4. Verify the Source

If you receive a QR code in an email, verify it's legitimate before scanning. Call the company directly if you're unsure. Legitimate businesses rarely send unsolicited QR codes requesting action.

5. Look for HTTPS

After scanning, check that the website uses HTTPS (look for the padlock icon). Never enter sensitive information on HTTP sites.

Red Flags to Watch For

• QR codes in unexpected emails or messages
• Codes with urgent or threatening language ("Scan now or lose access!")
• Stickers placed over existing codes
• URLs with misspellings or unusual domains
• Requests for login credentials immediately after scanning
• Random QR codes on flyers or public posts
• Offers that seem too good to be true

What to Do If You Scanned a Suspicious Code

1. Don't enter any information on the website
2. Close the browser immediately
3. Run a security scan on your device
4. Change passwords if you entered any credentials
5. Monitor accounts for suspicious activity
6. Report the incident to the relevant organization

Statistics on QR Code Attacks

• Nearly 75% of people cannot distinguish between legitimate and malicious QR codes
• QR code phishing attacks increased significantly since 2023
• 62% of people have encountered QR codes for payments

The Bottom Line

QR codes are generally safe when used properly. The technology itself isn't dangerous—but like any tool, it can be misused. Stay vigilant, check URLs before visiting, and trust your instincts. If something seems suspicious, don't scan it.