Understanding Quishing and How It Works
What Is Quishing?
Quishing, derived from "QR Code Phishing," is a deceptive technique where cybercriminals exploit the widespread use of QR codes to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information or downloading malicious content. These codes, seemingly harmless at first glance, can redirect users to fraudulent websites designed to mimic legitimate ones. Sometimes, these QR codes even include logos from reputable companies to try to seem more trustworthy.
How Quishing Attacks Are Carried Out
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Tampering with legitimate QR codes – Fraudsters place fake QR code stickers over real ones in public places, such as restaurants, parking meters, or event venues.
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Embedding QR codes in phishing emails – Email security filters typically scan for malicious links in text but may not detect harmful URLs hidden within QR codes.
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Social engineering tactics – Attackers lure users into scanning QR codes by offering enticing deals, urgent security alerts, or impersonating trusted entities.
Common Quishing Scams and Targets
Industries and Individuals at Risk
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Banking and finance – Cybercriminals create fake QR codes to trick users into entering their online banking credentials.
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Retail and hospitality – Fraudulent QR codes on restaurant menus and payment terminals can lead customers to scam websites.
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Corporate environments – Employees may receive phishing emails with malicious QR codes, leading to corporate credential theft.
Real-World Examples of QR Code Scams
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Fake parking meter QR codes – Attackers placed fraudulent QR codes on public parking meters, leading users to phishing sites that harvested credit card information.
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Impersonation scams – Cybercriminals sent phishing emails with QR codes pretending to be from financial institutions, prompting users to enter their banking credentials.
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COVID-19 scams – Fraudulent QR codes linked to fake government or health organisation websites were used to steal sensitive data during the pandemic.
Detecting and Preventing QR Code Phishing
Warning Signs of a Malicious QR Code
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Shortened URLs – Scammers often disguise malicious links using URL shorteners.
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Requests for sensitive information – Legitimate QR codes rarely require users to enter passwords or financial details.
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Poor branding or design inconsistencies – Fake QR codes may have mismatched branding or unusual formatting.
Security Measures for Individuals
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Use a QR code scanner with built-in security features that preview the destination URL.
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Manually type website addresses instead of scanning unknown QR codes.
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Verify QR codes on official websites before scanning.
Preventive Steps for Businesses
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Employee training – Educate staff on recognising and avoiding QR code phishing attempts.
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Secure QR code generation – Ensure company-generated QR codes are tamper-proof.
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Monitoring and verification – Regularly check QR codes used in business operations to prevent unauthorised changes.
QRLJacking: A Dangerous Form of Quishing
What Is QRLJacking?
QRLJacking (Quick Response Code Login Jacking) is an advanced form of quishing that exploits QR-based authentication systems. Attackers create fake login QR codes that, once scanned, grant them access to the victim’s online accounts.
How to Prevent QRLJacking Attacks
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Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) instead of QR-based logins.
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Only scan QR codes from verified sources and avoid logging in via public or unknown networks.
Protection Solutions Against Quishing
Cybersecurity Tools for Individuals
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Use mobile security apps that scan QR codes for phishing threats.
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Implement password managers and two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect accounts from credential theft.
Enterprise-Grade Security Solutions
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QR code verification tools that analyse QR codes before allowing access.
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Advanced email filtering to detect and block phishing emails containing malicious QR codes.
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Endpoint security software to protect company devices from cyber threats.
Responding to a Quishing Attack
Immediate Actions After Scanning a Malicious QR Code
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Disconnect from the network – Prevent potential malware from spreading by disabling Wi-Fi and mobile data.
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Reset credentials – Change passwords associated with affected accounts.
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Scan for malware – Use cybersecurity software to check for infections on your device.
Reporting and Mitigating Damage
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Report the incident to their IT department, financial institution, or cybersecurity authorities.
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Monitor financial transactions for any unauthorised activity.
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Implement additional security measures, such as enabling 2FA and updating device security settings.
By staying informed and implementing these preventive strategies, individuals and businesses can protect themselves against quishing and emerging QR code phishing threats.
A Proactive Approach to QR Code Security
As QR codes continue to simplify our daily tasks, it is crucial to remain vigilant against evolving cyber threats like quishing. By adopting a proactive approach, staying informed, and implementing security measures, individuals can navigate the digital landscape with confidence, ensuring that the convenience of QR codes doesn't compromise personal security.
Stay safe, stay informed, and scan responsibly.
