Scams through QR codes
QR codes are no longer only used online to scam people. People can also approach you on the street and ask if you want to scan a QR code. Some might ask you to transfer money for the parking meter via a QR code because the scammer does not have cash with him. Some who have been scammed so far have been promised five euros in cash in exchange for scanning the QR code. Unfortunately, without knowing it, these people ended up on a phishing site where the scammer could retrieve bank details. This type of scamming also occurs on Ebay by means of the “cent trick.”
Tips
Now, for the most important part: how do you prevent being scammed by fraudulent QR codes? Always be on your guard when it comes to transferring money through online payment requests or by scanning QR codes. Don’t have a good feeling about it? Then do not scan the QR code. Instead, transfer the payment yourself via the app from your own bank. There are a number of other things to look out for when it comes to QR code fraud:
- Always take a good look at the URL/hyperlink of payment requests. Does this match the link in the actual URL of the payment service? If so, then the chance of that being a scam is small.
- Reliability does not have to be proven to the seller, so you should never have to scan a QR code to prove that your personal information and account number are correct.
- The seller does not need any other information from you—no photo or copy of your ID or driver’s license.
- When in doubt, always contact your bank to inquire about the situation.
- Is it too late and you suspect that you have been the victim of fraud? Contact your bank immediately and report this to the police. They can see what else can be done for you.
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