Don't blindly scan QR codes in public

CYBERSECURITY COUNCIL WARNS OF SCAMSTERS USING FAKE CODES TO STEAL SENSITIVE DATA

- BY ALI AL HAMMADI

The UAE Cybersecurity Council has warned of a rise in cybercriminals exploit QR codes in public places to steal personal and financial data.

These codes are used to direct unsuspecting users to suspicious websites, often under the guise of legitimate services.

The Council urged the public not to scan QR codes placed in public spaces without first verifying their authenticity. Warning signs may include multiple layers of stickers in the same location or being redirected to a suspicious website that requests personal data or contains spelling errors.

The Council noted that cybercriminals are placing fake QR code stickers on signposts or informational boards in public spaces, intending to lure victims and steal their personal and banking information by redirecting them to malicious sites capable of compromising their devices and accounts.

Examples of scams