What is QR Code?
QR code may look simple, but it is capable of storing a lot of data inside itself. No matter how much data is inside the QR code, it can be accessed immediately after scanning. That's why it is also called a quick response code. A QR code is a type of barcode that a digital device can easily read. QR code is used to track information about the product. The QR code system was developed in 1994 by Denso Wave, a Japanese subsidiary of Toyota. Most smartphones have built-in QR scanners. If not, then the app can also be downloaded from Google Play Store or Apple App Store to read the QR code.
Why are QR codes on the target of thugs?
These days, QR code (Quick Response Code) is being used a lot in places like shopping to petrol pumps, etc. This also saves people from the hassle of always keeping cash. As its use is increasing rapidly, cybercriminals have also started adopting new tactics to cheat people. QR code is a static image, which cannot be hacked, but anyone can easily change it. The most significant risk with a QR code is that you won't know what's behind the code until you scan it. Cases of UPI-based fraud are also coming to the fore. Often cyber thugs commit fraud by winning the trust of the seller who put the ad on Olx.
In recent times, most of the fraud cases have come related to QR codes. As soon as a seller uploads a product on these platforms, thugs become active. They get ready to buy without looking closely at the product and immediately lure people into their trap by promising online advance payment.
How can you escape:
These days thugs encourage to scan QR codes by luring them. Remember that QR code is used only for sending money and not for receiving cash through the scan. Whenever you are asked to send a certain amount, scan the QR code using UPI apps like Google pay, Bhim, SBI YONO, PAYTM, Phonepe, etc. and then confirm the transaction with the amount and your Enter the UPI pin. If the scan does not show the trusted source, then the payment should be avoided.
Verify during the scan:
You have to understand that money is sent through QR code, not by scanning you get cash. Many times thugs also try to cheat people by pretending to have a unique merchant code. Apart from this, some fraudsters created fake payment processes on exact clones at petrol pumps have been some incidents. Surprisingly, no one was able to detect this fraud. All payments were sent to another account. So as a customer, when you make a payment, after scanning the code, a name will appear; it must be verified whether the money is going to the correct account or not. You should also confirm from where you are making the payment. If you become a victim of fraud due to any reason, then you must immediately file a report on the 155260 helpline. Also, it should be told in which account the money has gone.
keep these things in mind:
- Before making the payment, please pay attention to the details and also verify them. If someone sends you a QR code or any link in the name of price on WhatsApp, etc., do not download or scan it because scanning can deduct money from your account.
- Once the QR is scanned, be careful if it looks like a short link (like bit.ly)
- If someone asks you to send money to the account, you flatly refuse because fraud is done differently every time.
- If a buyer is ready to buy without looking closely at your product and talking about advance payment, be careful.
- Keep the device's security software up to date. If you become a victim of fraud, you can file a complaint on the National Cyber Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).
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