One might want to reconsider before scanning QR codes.
The codes, which are a digital jumble of white and black squares that are frequently used to record URLs, are apparently commonplace; they may as well be seen, for example, on menus at restaurants and retail establishments. The Federal Trade Commission cautioned on Thursday that they could be dangerous for those who aren’t cautious.
According to a report by eMarketer, around 94 million US consumers have used QR scanner this year. The number is only increasing, with around 102.6 million anticipated by 2026.
As per Alvaro Puig, a consumer education specialist with the FTC, QRs are quite popular since there are endless ways to use them.
“Unfortunately, scammers hide harmful links in QR codes to steal personal information,” Puig said.
Why is Stolen Personal Data a Threat?
The stolen data can be misused by threat actors in a number of ways: According to a separate report by FTC, the identity thieves can use victim’s personal data to illicitly file tax returns in their names and obtain tax refunds, drain their bank accounts, charge their credit cards, open new utility accounts, get medical treatment on their health insurance, and open new utility accounts.
In some cases, criminals cover the leg
[…]
Content was cut in order to protect the source.Please visit the source for the rest of the article.