What Is Quishing?

Quishing stands for QR code phishing.

What Is Quishing?

QR Code. Photo by Pexels.

What do we know about quishing?

Today, many people use QR codes for different things, like paying and checking menus. But you need to be careful! Some bad people can use QR codes to trick you. It is called quishing or QR code phishing. It is a phishing method that uses QR codes instead of regular links in emails or on the internet.

These bad people use quishing to fool others into giving away personal information or downloading harmful stuff onto their devices.

How can quishing affect someone?
QR code on a pole. Photo by Pexels.

Hackers use online tools to make harmful QR codes. These codes might take users to fake payment sites or dangerous websites that can hurt their devices or download viruses. 
They can also send people to fake websites to steal their information. The QR codes often use short web addresses, making it hard to tell if a site is real or fake.

Hackers put these codes on posters, flyers, and ads in public places, taking advantage of the fact that more people are using QR codes. When someone scans these codes, their personal information might be stolen, hackers might access their devices, etc.

How to avoid quishing?

Never scan a QR code from an unknown source. Before opening it, check the preview to see if the URL looks real. Ensure the website uses HTTPS, not HTTP, and has no misspelt words.

Be really careful if a QR code takes you to a website asking for personal information. Don't download apps or files through QR codes. It's safer to get those things from trusted websites. Educate yourself and others about quishing dangers and how to stay safe. These are some methods people can use to avoid quishing.

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