Before you scan that QR code, the FBI has a warning that could keep you from being separated from your money or personal information.
Quick Response codes, better known as QR codes, are a convenient way for businesses to get you to visit their websites, download their apps or make payments. But the FBI is warning that bad actors can manipulate these codes to steal your money or personal information.
“Cybercriminals tamper with both digital and physical QR codes to replace legitimate codes with malicious codes,” the FBI said in a statement Tuesday. “A victim scans what they think to be a legitimate code but the tampered code directs victims to a malicious site, which prompts them to enter login and financial information. Access to this victim information gives the cybercriminal the ability to potentially steal funds through victim accounts.”
The FBI also said fake QR codes can be used to embed malware onto a victim’s phone, giving a scam artist access to the device and potentially any information on it, including financial information. The Bureau said if you become a victim, there is no guarantee law enforcement can get lost funds back to you.
Here are some tips from the FBI on how to protect yourself from being taken advantage of.
- If a QR code is sent to you…
