Hackers Hijacking QR Codes: Including Pay Apps

Review the entire QR code or watch for redirects when using QR Codes.Photo byPalm Coast Local

Back in 2022, the FBI warned device users about QR codes being hacked, the warning is back. Even though local businesses use them for good stuff like guiding you to a website, products or reviews, things can get sketchy when these codes are out in the open.

So, a QR code is like a fancy barcode on products. It hides a web links or info inside it. There are three types of QR Codes:

1. Standard QR Codes: Black and white with messy dots and squares.
2. Dynamic QR Codes: Colored with a symbol or logo in the middle.
3. A.I. Generated QR Codes: Super colorful with pixel images.

Test these QR codes to see how they work and what to look for.Photo byPalm Coast Local

Before, QR codes used to direct you straight to a website or download without asking or prompting permission, with smartphones, you can now see the web link before you decide.

Tip: Be careful. Look at the whole web link before you click. Check for:

• HTTPS: It means it's secure. If it's just HTTP, it's not.
• Check the Web Link: Make sure it's what it claims to be.
• Long Numbers are Suspicious: If the web link is just a long string of numbers, be wary.
• Downloading is Risky: If it tells you to download something, be cautious.

QR Codes are a great way to share information across devices and the web. Use caution, review and don't be in a hurry. QR Codes that are often hacked, or redirects you to an unintended destination come from public places where the masses have access to them. Private and local business who have them on business cards, vehicles and other local areas are often more safe than those on TV, Social Media and Restaurants' where hundreds of people visit daily.

What other tricks are scammers and hackers using that you know of? Tell us in the comments so others can know and we may feature it too.