2024-08-16 20:22:00
With the emergence of digital technologies, QR codes have quickly become part of our daily lives. This “spiderweb-like scribble that only devices can read and understand,” is becoming more and more present in our daily lives, appearing on business cards, advertisements, and even on buses. In France, the use of QR codes has increased, particularly with the pandemic, where their use has jumped by 4% in just six months, and around 45% of French Internet users have scanned a QR code in the last month. Their ease of use and efficiency make them an essential tool for quickly accessing information0
QR Codes: A Practical Double-Edged Tool
However, this growing popularity only attracts the attention of cybercriminals, who now see this technique as an opportunity to carry out their fraudulent attacks. That said, it becomes essential to understand the risks associated with QR codes and take the necessary precautions to protect our personal data.
Exploitation of QR Codes by Cybercriminals
Indeed, fraudulent attacks using QR codes exploit the natural characteristics of this technology, such as ease of scanning and quick access to information. Attackers create malicious codes that can redirect users to fraudulent websites or request sensitive information, thus exposing their personal data and digital security to risks.
Precautions to take for a secure scan
To protect yourself against these attacks, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with QR codes and to follow best practices to protect your personal data, according to a technical site here are some tips and measures to adopt to ensure your security when using QR codes:
Checking the source of the code : If you receive a QR code via email, text message, or social media, make sure the source is trustworthy. Be wary of suspicious links or unexpected messages asking you to scan QR codes.
Beware of QR codes in public places : QR codes you find in unusual places, like random posters or unfamiliar advertisements, can be risky. Be careful.
Using reliable scanning applications: Use QR code scanning apps that offer security features, such as verifying the link before opening it, such as “Kaspersky QR Scanner” and “McAfee Mobile Security”.
Updates : Make sure to regularly update your scanning applications to get the latest security features and fixes before clicking on any link.
Avoid suspicious links: Double-check the URL after scanning the code in your browser before entering any personal information. Look for signs that the site might be unsecure, such as typos or an unprofessional appearance, and avoid entering your personal or financial information on unknown or suspicious sites.
Software Updates : Update your system software and applications. Keep your operating system and applications up to date, as updates often contain security fixes to protect against new threats.
Security : Make sure all your security software, such as antivirus and firewalls, are up to date and working properly. Make sure your device is protected with a strong password and that you follow good online security practices.
Enabling security on the device : Activate security programs and use antivirus and anti-malware software that provide complete protection for your device.
Avoid public networks : When entering sensitive information online, try to avoid using public networks like open Wi-Fi. If you must use a public network, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.
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