There are few things that symbolise the early twenty-first century more than the QR code. You need a phone with a camera and that photo takes you on a trip through the information superhighway. We no longer need a url, in fact we don’t even need words. One click and you’re at your destination.
We have just lost cabin pressure.
QR Codes can be used for pretty much anything. They are our tickets to see Five Finger Death Punch. They are the menu at that new Vegan Restaurant that all the hip and happening kids are talking about. You can use them to access Wi-Fi and even make payments.
Of course, we can’t have a popular digital movement without some cyber-brat popping up to spoil it all. With the increased popularity of QR codes, it wouldn’t take long for someone to invent quishing.
What is Quishing?
Despite sounding like a children’s soft beverage, quishing is really a portmanteau of “QR” and “phishing”. It’s a type of attack wherein cyber-ruffians embed malicious links into the QR codes.
When unsuspecting victims scan the code, they're redirected to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information, such as passwords, credit card details, or even bank account information.
Cybercriminals direct this malicious code to a phishing website. They then distribute these codes through various channels, such as social media, email, text messages, or even physical posters. Once a victim scans the code, their device is directed to the fraudulent website.
Common Quishing Tactics
Fake Wi-Fi Hotspots: Cybercriminals set up fake Wi-Fi hotspots with attractive names and share QR codes to connect. Once connected, users are redirected to a phishing page.
Social Media and Messaging Apps: Malicious QR codes can be shared on social media platforms or messaging apps, often disguised as links to interesting content or promotions.
Public Places: Criminals might place QR codes on posters or stickers in public areas, promising rewards or discounts.
Email Attachments: Phishing emails may contain QR codes that, when scanned, lead to malicious websites.
How to Spot a Quishing Attempt
While quishing can be a sophisticated attack, there are several red flags to watch out for:
Unverified QR Codes: Be cautious of QR codes from unknown sources or those that don't align with the expected content.
Suspicious URLs: If you can manually type the URL from the QR code, check for any spelling errors, unusual domains, or generic terms.
Generic or Vague Prompts: QR codes that promise vague rewards or benefits are more likely to be malicious.
Sense of Urgency: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure victims into acting quickly without thinking.
Unusual Requests: If a QR code asks for sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial details, it's almost certainly a scam.
Protecting Yourself from Quishing
Be Wary of QR Codes: Only scan QR codes from trusted sources.
Use a QR Code Scanner App: Some scanner apps can detect malicious links before you access them.
Cover Your Camera: Avoid scanning QR codes when someone is watching or pressuring you.
Keep Your Devices Updated: Ensure your smartphone and computer operating systems, as well as apps, are up-to-date with the latest security patches.
Be Cautious Online: Be mindful of suspicious links, emails, and messages, and avoid clicking on them.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to a quishing attack. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always exercise caution and protect your personal information.
Stay informed
If you spot the red flags, or are unsure about something online, a good rule of thumb is always to back up and report it. If you are sent something through social media or email, treat it like you would attachments or strange links. And, as for clicking random unsolicited QR codes in the wild, that’s asking for trouble.
If you want to learn more about quishing please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01327 300 311, or email [email protected] with your enquiry.
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