In today’s digital landscape, cybercriminals are constantly adapting their tactics to exploit new technologies and trick unsuspecting users. One of the more recent methods to emerge is quishing—a combination of QR codes and phishing attacks. As QR codes have become a widely accepted tool for quick access to websites, menus, payments, and authentication, attackers are now leveraging them to launch sophisticated scams.
So, what exactly is quishing, how does it work, and how can you protect yourself and your business from this growing threat?
What is Quishing?
Quishing is a type of phishing attack where a malicious actor uses a QR code to deceive the victim into visiting a fraudulent website or downloading harmful software. QR codes are those square, pixelated images that, when scanned with a smartphone or device, take users to a specific website or application.
What makes quishing especially dangerous is its ability to bypass traditional phishing detection mechanisms. Most users are cautious about clicking suspicious links in emails, but they tend to trust QR codes, especially when they appear in seemingly legitimate contexts such as flyers, business cards, advertisements, or even emails. However, once the code is scanned, the user is often directed to a malicious website that aims to steal sensitive data like login credentials, payment information, or personal identification details.
How Quishing Works
The primary mechanism behind quishing is deception. Attackers place a malicious QR code in a location where users are likely to interact with it, such as in an email, a flyer, or even on a fake website. When scanned, the code may redirect the user to:
- A phishing website that mimics a legitimate login page to steal usernames and passwords.
- A malicious application download, which can install malware or spyware on the user’s device.
- A fake payment portal designed to capture credit card information.
One of the challenges in detecting quishing is that most QR codes are seen as convenient tools for accessing information quickly, and users don’t often suspect them of being harmful. In many cases, the scam is also well-disguised, blending seamlessly into everyday interactions like payment processing or marketing materials.
Real-World Examples of Quishing
As QR codes have grown in popularity, so too have quishing scams. For example, in early 2022, attackers replaced legitimate QR codes on parking meters in major cities with malicious ones. Drivers scanned the codes thinking they were paying for parking, but instead, they were redirected to a fake payment site that stole their credit card information.
Phishing emails have also started incorporating QR codes instead of clickable links. These emails often claim to offer a secure or fast-tracked solution to a problem—such as renewing a subscription or confirming a delivery—tempting users to scan the code without questioning its authenticity.
How to Protect Yourself from Quishing
Protecting yourself from quishing requires vigilance and awareness. Here are some key steps to minimize the risk:
Be cautious with unsolicited QR codes: If you receive a QR code from an unknown or unexpected source, think twice before scanning it. Always verify that the code comes from a legitimate organization or individual.
Check the URL destination: Many mobile devices allow you to preview the URL a QR code points to before visiting the site. Check that the URL is legitimate and looks trustworthy. Look for HTTPS encryption and a valid domain name.
Use QR scanning apps that verify content: Some apps and devices offer extra layers of protection by scanning the QR code and alerting you to suspicious links or content before opening the website.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Even if an attacker gains access to your credentials, MFA can act as an additional layer of defense, preventing unauthorized access to your accounts.
Educate your team: Phishing attacks, including quishing, often target employees. Offering awareness training can help your staff recognize and avoid these threats.
Stay Secure with Arsen
At Arsen, we understand the evolving nature of cyber threats and provide next-generation cybersecurity awareness training for your employees. Our comprehensive training programs cover the latest tactics, including quishing, and equip your team with the knowledge to spot phishing scams before they cause harm.
To learn more about protecting your business from quishing and other phishing techniques, contact Arsen today.
