QR code scanning in restaurants and public places may expose users to significant security risks such as phishing scams and malware.
In Finland, a warning has been issued regarding the risks associated with scanning QR codes in various public settings, such as restaurants. Konstantin Levinzon, a founder of Planet VPN, highlights that if scanning a QR code directs users to a website that requests payment or login information, this is a clear sign of danger. He notes that this issue has become more prevalent since the COVID-19 pandemic, when QR codes were widely adopted for safety and convenience.
Levinzon further elaborates on the concept of 'quishing,' a term referring to QR code scams that parallel traditional phishing methods seen in emails or text messages. Users may underestimate the threat presented by these QR codes, which can lead not only to identity theft and financial loss but also to the installation of malicious software on their phones. The increase in QR code usage necessitates greater awareness among individuals regarding the potential dangers.
As QR codes remain a convenient tool for accessing information quickly, Levinzon emphasizes the importance of vigilance while using them. He urges users to be cautious and to verify the legitimacy of any website linked through a QR code before entering sensitive information, thus highlighting a larger conversation about cybersecurity awareness in an increasingly digital world.
