Greater Manchester Police have issued a warning to the public about a significant rise in QR code fraud, following a noticeable increase in such crimes within the area. The force has recorded three incidents of fake QR codes being used in the past week alone.
QR codes, which provide a convenient way for mobile phone users to access websites quickly, have seen widespread adoption since the pandemic. However, this rise in usage has also presented new opportunities for criminals.
A representative from Greater Manchester Police explained that fraudsters are exploiting QR codes in public spaces, particularly targeting car parks and parking meters. Criminals often place fake QR code stickers over legitimate ones, leading unsuspecting users to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal and financial information.
The fake QR code will take users to a genuine-looking payment site to steal personal information and, in some instances, financial information,” the police spokesperson said. “If something doesn’t look right and the sticker looks out of place, type in the URL manually to ensure you are getting to the correct website.”
The force advised the public to be vigilant when using QR codes in public spaces. They urged individuals to check for signs of tampering or suspicious stickers before scanning any QR codes.
Anyone who suspects they or someone they know has fallen victim to QR code fraud is encouraged to report the incident to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cyber crime.
Additional Safety Tips:
- Check for Tampering: Look closely at QR code stickers for any signs of tampering or if the sticker looks out of place.
- Use Official Channels: Where possible, manually enter the URL rather than scanning a QR code.
- Verify the Website: Ensure that the website you are directed to is legitimate and secure before entering any personal or financial information.
Greater Manchester Police continue to monitor the situation and are working to prevent further incidents. The public is urged to stay informed and cautious to protect themselves from this emerging form of fraud.
