Being informed and up to date on the latest developments in cybersecurity is vitally important 24/7/365. Since October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to review how to use QR codes safely in our roles as consumers as well as marketers.
2024 happens to be the 30th anniversary of the invention of QR codes by a Japanese company for inventory control of automotive parts. They’ve become increasingly popular in marketing, direct mail, packaging, connected TV ads, airplane boarding passes and concert tickets. The COVID years had a major impact on the use of QR codes when restaurants began using them in place of physical menus and for payment processing. Statista.com projects that there will be over 100 million QR code users in the US in 2025.
Is there something phishy about QR codes?
Allied recommends the smart use of QR codes and personalized QR codes across marketing channels. But could there be a downside to the ubiquitous square box? Potentially, yes. Criminals exploit new technologies as soon as they are introduced. It’s possible for malicious QR codes to contain custom malware that automatically downloads code to capture your data from a mobile device. Also, QR codes could connect you to a fake or copycat website to phish for personal and financial information. But there are steps you can take to ensure the security and integrity of the QR and PQR codes you use in your marketing.
What can consumers and marketers do?
QR codes, used properly, are effective and efficient communication links. As consumers, they can be safe and secure if you apply the same sense and skepticism you would to any online transaction.
- Avoid scanning codes on signs, suspicious looking flyers, or codes that look like they have been pasted over another code.
- Only scan codes from trusted sites, verifying the links are legitimate and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
- Don’t download a 3rd party QR scanner – use the one that comes with your phone or mobile device.
- Enable 2-factor verification on all your accounts that offer it and keep current with all software updates.
- Marketers and consumers – include a direct link that can be typed into the device browser to offer an alternative to scanning a code.
Marketers – keep using QR codes and contact Allied if you’re looking for ways to implement QR codes and PQRs to improve results and maintain peace of mind in their security.
Consumers – keep a close eye on everything you do with digital devices, be smart and advise friends and family members who may not be as savvy. Use QR codes safely!
Learn more about cyber security at: https://staysafeonline.org/programs/cybersecurity-awareness-month/