QR codes are championed by many marketers. It’s no surprise; one can fit a large amount of information within a small space. Bar codes come with a twenty-character limit, but QR codes can use upward of 1,000 characters depending on the characters and the codes’ data capacity. QR codes also are easier to scan, and they have a built-in error correction. When space is at a premium or the space itself is awkward, such as the spaces found on subway stations or bus terminals, it makes sense to invest in the QR code.
The problem is that QR codes can be hacked. They can send people to malicious websites. They can install viruses, especially if a person has unchecked some of the security features that come with his or her smartphone. They can masquerade as legitimate applications. If the person scanning a QR code isn’t careful and doesn’t pay attention, he or she could have welcomed trouble ranging from malware to identity theft.
Fortunately, people can take pre-emptive actions. They don't have to be the victims of devious QR codes just as they don't have to be the victims of phishing schemes. When it comes to QR codes, people should:
- Use a QR-code scanner. To be more specific, use a QR-code scanner that provides a preview of a scanned link before taking action. Both Google Goggles and ZXing Barcode Scanner offer such previews.
- Turn off the “Unknown sources” option on smartphones. If it's enabled, the phone will download anything and everything. It’s better to turn it off or to remember to be extra vigilant when scanning QR codes or downloading applications.
- Pay attention to the “spidy” sense. If anything seems wrong or fishy during the process of scanning a QR code, exit the scan as quickly as possible.
- Stay informed. Spammers and scammers exploit what people know about QR codes. The more a person knows and the more familiar he or she is with real QR codes, the less likely it is that that person will fall for the fakes.
Do you use QR codes? Tell us your thoughts about them in the comments.
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