Many marketing plans now use QR codes. It is a quick and easy way to go to a website using the camera on your smart phone.
However, hackers use these same QR codes as phishing tools. Here are some tips to make sure you don’t fall for a scam.
- DO NOT scan a QR code that you do not trust
- If the QR code comes in a message from an organization you do business with or trust, make sure it really is from them by contacting the organization directly – not through any links in the suspicious message.
- DO NOT use a QR code that is supposedly set up to send you money…instead of sending you money, a QR scam will TAKE money from you.
- Be sure to have updated antivirus software
- If you know the website that a QR is supposed to go to, choose to access that site manually instead
- If you question whether it is a scam that may have been reported, check with the Better Business Bureau scam alert. If you find a QR scam, report it to the BBB.