QR code scams (quishing)

What You Can Do

Quishing is when a fraudster creates a QR (‘quick response’) code that directs you to a fake website. The fake website looks genuine and asks you for personal and/or financial information, it could also infect your phone with malware. The fraudster then uses the information you have provided to attempt to steal your money and/or identity.

QR codes are a quick and easy way for people to reach a website. Customers scan the code, such as the one seen below, with their smart phone camera or a dedicated scanner app.

QR codes are used for different purposes, for example:

  • ordering food and drink at restaurants;
  • to pay a parking meter;
  • for advertising (leading to the company’s product on their website);
  • to facilitate the return of goods;
  • to download a new APP on your TV.