The QR Code on the Restaurant Menu Could Be a Trap
QR codes are everywhere now, from restaurant menus in downtown Hamilton to parking meters and concert posters. They're a handy shortcut, but criminals are starting to take advantage of our trust in them.
Here’s how the scam works: a scammer prints out a sticker with a malicious QR code and simply places it over the real one on a menu or poster. You, an unsuspecting customer, scan what you think is the menu. Instead of seeing a list of appetizers, the code does one of a few nasty things:
- It takes you to a convincing-looking phishing site that asks for your credit card or login details.
- It initiates a malware download directly to your phone.
- It automatically dials a premium-rate phone number, racking up charges.
How do you protect yourself? Be skeptical.
- Check for tampering. Does the QR code look like a sticker placed on top of something else? If so, be wary.
- Preview the URL. Most modern phone cameras will show you a preview of the website URL before opening it. If the URL looks strange or doesn't match the business (e.g.,
B1t.ly/menuinstead ofTheRestaurant.ca/menu), don't click it. - Never download apps from a QR code. Only use your phone's official app store.
QR codes are useful, but think before you scan. A little bit of suspicion is a healthy thing.
