QR code senders must ensure security
Quick response codes have presented a new option for those looking to better engage with consumers who own smartphone devices. While there can be many benefits to using the scannable barcodes, some security experts are warning that the codes could be used by hackers to lead consumers astray.
In a recent post for The Noisecast, Chris Ness writes that there are many ways both businesses and consumers can suffer from phony QR code implementation. Sometimes hackers will put a different code on top of the legitimate printed material, which may be sent out using address validation software.
"The bigger threat is when someone puts a malicious QR code on top of the intended one," he wote on the site. "You scan the code, which is supposed to take you to the information page, but instead, you’ve now been prompted to send a pre-composed text to an unknown number. Maybe they’ll text you the details, so you hit send."
All over the world, organizations are leveraging QR codes to attract the desired audience. British intelligence agency MI-5, which recently used the strategy to better engage with possible recruits in public places.