Criminals are using Fraudful QR Code In car parks to steal personal and financial information, Action fraud has warned.
The QR code scams have been lost about £ 3.5 million due to scams Reporting center for fraud And Cybercrime Between April 2024 and April 2025.
QR code is also known as fishing, ‘Quishing’ is a type of cybercatac where QR code is used Trick persons In going to fraud websites or downloading malware.
Fake QR codes are most often used in car parks, using stickers already with scan codes using stickers with criminals to tamper on parking machines.
scam Online shopping is also used on platforms, where vendors either received a QR code via email to verify or receive payment for goods sold.
Some fishing attacks implement HMRC, or other UK government schemes, which targets people with QR code designed to steal personal and financial statements, show reports.
People are being asked to be vigilant and double-check the QR code, whether they are malicious, or have been tampered with before scanning them online or in public places.
Claire Web, Acting Director Action fraud,
“We are urging people to stop and check before scanning the QR code, so that you can avoid becoming a victim of coiny. Look for the QR code, which can be tampered with in open places, or emails and texts may include evil codes. If you are in doubt, contact the organization directly.”
Although QR code used in pubs and restaurants is usually safe to scan, in open places in train stations or car parks, can pose more risk.
Action fraud The code suggests to be tampered with for the signals that can be tampered with, such as a sticker is placed on a valid QR code.
If you are uncertain, it is best not to scan the QR code at all and instead find the official website or app of the organization you are trying to pay.
If you get an email with a QR code in it, and you are asked to scan it, then you should be cautious due to an increase in this type of ‘Quishing’ attacks.
Another precaution to take is always to use the QR scanner coming with your phone, rather than using the app downloaded from an app store, as it is more secure.
