Black Friday is a time for big deals and discounts, but it's also an opportunity for scammers to exploit unsuspecting shoppers.
QR codes can be seen all around us and are used to open websites, pay for products and view services with ease. From shopping centre walls and car parks, to restaurant menus and leaflets.
QR codes function similarly to barcodes. When scanned with a smartphone camera, they reveal a link to the embedded information.
Although many QR codes are legitimate and convenient, it’s important to be vigilant as QR code fraud is on the rise with incidents being reported across the country.
This blog discusses how QR code fraud works, Black Friday scams you should watch out for and how to avoid falling victim.
How QR Code Fraud Works
Scammers use QR codes to direct you to malicious websites or apps designed to steal your personal information or spread malware. It provides them with the opportunity to hack bank accounts or steal people's identities for financial gain.
Their aim is to trick you into thinking the QR code is legitimate and often from a company you know and trust. These codes can be found on fraudulent posters, social media posts and emails they have created. Scammers may also stick bogus QR codes on top of legitimate QR codes in public places to try and catch unsuspecting people out.
Black Friday Scams to Watch Out For
The nature of Black Friday is to act fast so that you don’t miss out on huge savings and unmissable deals. For cyber criminals this is the perfect opportunity to scam, as you may not identify red flags because you are rushing to grab the latest deal.
It’s more common for QR code fraud to occur in open spaces, however, there has been an increasing use in phishing emails and other online platforms.
Don’t get caught out and be cautious of these Black Friday scams:
- Emails: Posed as your favourite brand emailing you with an exclusive 75% off if you scan the QR code and download their app. When downloaded, malicious malware is installed, compromising your device and putting your personal information at risk.
- Online Ads and Social Media Posts: Fake ads and social posts promising unbelievable Black Friday deals when you scan the QR code. Once scanned, you’re then taken to a spoofed website that looks identical to the brand you know, so it’s not obvious that it's fraudulent.
- Posters and Flyers: A quick way to skip the line and pay for the car park. You could be providing scammers with your debit card details instead of innocently paying your parking ticket after a busy day shopping Black Friday offers.
Although these could all be legitimate Black Friday deals, in some cases, they could be Black Friday scams.
How to Avoid Falling Victim to QR code Fraud
- Verify the Source: Only scan QR codes from trusted sources. If you see a code in an email or social media post, verify it through the official website of the retailer.
- Check URLs and Send from Addresses Carefully: Look for small spelling errors or unusual domain names before proceeding. If it looks suspicious, don’t take the risk.
- Update your apps and operating system: Ensuring your device and apps have the latest security software and updates is essential. This helps your device stay protected against the latest cyber threats.
- Check for tampering: Before scanning QR codes in public places, check for tampering. Usually, a sticker is placed over the legitimate QR code, so the fraudulent code is the one you scan. It is always recommended to access the desired website or app via the official app store or official website, rather than scanning a QR code.
We often see a rise in cyber crime during the lead up to Christmas, therefore there is a heightened threat around Black Friday scams. Whist enjoying your Black Friday shopping, remain vigilant of QR code fraud and spread the word to family and friends.
