Fraud Warning

Quishing scams

Quishing, also known as QR code phishing, involves tricking someone into scanning a phony QR code with their phone or device. The QR code then takes the user to a fraudulent website that might download malware or ask for sensitive information. QR codes are often found on things like parking machines, charging points, emails, even restaurant menus and you may well use them even more this time of year as you dash between car parks to purchase presents and meet up with friends in cafes and restaurants. 

Prevention: 

·  Check… if the QR is on a poster in a public area, always check whether it appears to have been stuck over the poster, window or billboard. If the sign or notice is laminated and the QR code is under the lamination or part of the original print, chances are it’s more likely to be genuine

·  If in doubt… download the app from the official Google or Apple store or search the website on your phone’s internet browser, rather than scanning a QR code to take you there. It may take longer, but it’s more secure

·  Trust your instincts, if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t

For more advice about all kinds of fraud, visit our website