(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

LINKED TO MALWARE

RCMP warn residents of QR code scams

Aug 15, 2024 | 3:12 PM

Red Deer RCMP are alerting residents of scams involving quick response (QR) codes, small tags that open a webpage when scanned with a mobile phone camera.

Recently, police have discovered scams involving malicious codes which, when scanned, bring the user to a website containing malware.

This malware can obtain personal banking and other sensitive information.

In one recent example, Mounties say a member of the public received a package of luxury goods that they had not ordered; The package contained a note directing them to scan the QR code.

Scammers may also place malicious QR codes on top of authentic ones.

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As a result, police advise residents to only scan codes they believe are authentic, and to visit The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca) to get familiar with the many different types of scams out there, as well as to access information and resources to share with family and friends.

If you have fallen victim to this or any other scam, please contact Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200, as well as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or 1-888-495-8501).

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