We recently received this email from a CyberGuy reader asking an important question about QR codes:
“Can you recommend a QR code reader that one will not be required to set up an account? In the App store, they all contain ads and in-app purchases. Many want you to allow them access to a lot of non-germane information in order to use it. I had an app for years that did not require one to bear one’s soul and did not require access to one’s phone activities. Suddenly one day I went to use it and things changed. Can you recommend a non-invasive QR code reader app that does not require a lot of Hoop Jumping” and retains privacy and security?”
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What is a QR code?
A QR code (short for Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that can be read by your smartphone camera. QR codes provide quick access to product information, promotions, and other content.
They are also used in ticketing, payment systems, and other applications where fast and easy access to information is important. It’s important to note that a QR code consists of black squares arranged on a white background. It is not the barcode that you see on the back of packages.
Do I need to use a third-party app to scan a QR code?
Our reader above asked us to recommend QR code reader apps. However, I recommend not using these reader apps at all. The reason is that all smartphones are able to scan QR codes within their camera apps, so having an extra app on your phone for this function is unnecessary.
Many of these apps now have annoying advertisements and pop-ups now anyway, which makes them increasingly difficult to use, as one wrong tap can lead you to a whole new page that you never wanted to visit. So, stick with your smartphone camera if you’re looking to scan any QR codes in the future.
How do you scan a QR code using your iPhone camera
- Open the Camera app on your iPhone
- Point the camera at the QR code you want to scan
- Wait for the camera to recognize the QR code. This usually happens automatically, although you may need to tap the screen to focus on the code
- When the code is recognized, a notification will appear at the top of the screen with a preview of the website or action associated with the QR code
- Tap the notification to open the website or perform the action
How do you scan a QR code using your Android camera
- Open your phone’s camera app
- Point the camera at the QR code you want to scan
- Wait for the camera to focus on the QR code
- You should see a notification pop up asking if you want to open the link associated with the QR code. If not, tap the notification that appears to open the link
Following the instructions above, if you’re reading this on your laptop or desktop, try to scan this code with your phone or tablet’s camera which will lead you to my CyberGuy newsletter page:
If the Camera app doesn’t recognize the QR code for your iPhone or Android, make sure that the code is in focus and well-lit. You may also need to adjust the angle or distance of the camera. Also, it’s important to note that older iPhones and Androids may not have the capabilities/software to scan QR codes.
What are the dangers of scanning QR codes?
You have to be careful when scanning these codes and make sure that they do not lead you to any suspicious websites or links that might infect your device with malware. Let’s dive into the Do’s and Don’ts with QR codes.
There are multiple dangers to scanning random QR codes. One trick that has been used is when cybercriminals replace real QR codes with fake ones. If you have ever seen a QR code for the public to scan placed by those companies at a specific touchpoint, cybercriminals have replaced those original codes with fake ones that will lead scanners to a phishing site or malware attack.
QR codes have also proven to be an issue in phishing emails that are designed to look legit. Typically, phishing attacks will ask you to scan a QR code, and as soon as you do, you’ll be asked to give all kinds of personal information that will then be handed over to a hacker.
Because QR codes have also grown in popularity as a form of payment method, scammers have taken full advantage of this by having your money sent to the wrong account or having a higher amount than required sent from your account.
What warning signs should I look for in a QR code?
Before you go ahead and scan a QR code, make sure to do the following first:
- Check the code for suspicious elements. Make sure the code itself doesn’t have any weird frame texts around it. Also, if you’re scanning a business code, make sure that the logo appears legitimate and that the code design matches the brand colors and specifications. Use your judgment, and if you’re on the fence, don’t scan.
- Verify the web address URL. Whenever you scan a QR code with the camera app on your smartphone, a notification will pop up on the screen immediately after the camera’s QR code sensor captures the code. Once the URL comes up, you should check and verify it for malicious signs and only click on it if it has https:// in front of the link and is encrypted.
How to avoid a QR code prying into your privacy
My best advice is, don’t point your phone at just any QR code. Think before you capture a QR code with your phone making sure it’s a trustable source. Never allow an app to be uploaded that did not come from either the Apple App Store or Google Play Store directly.
If you’re using strong security protection software and apps on all of your devices, chances are that threats of these types can be intercepted before they cause harm.
If you have antivirus software installed on your devices, it will prevent you from clicking an opening a malicious link. Be sure you’re protected!
See my list of the best security protection software options here.
Have you seen any QR code scams recently? Let us know your experience.
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