You’ve probably seen them around, the black-white image barcodes that you can scan with your mobile phone. In 2011 scammers began to realize how they can use the smart QR codes to spread malware. Co-founder of MYMobileSecurity Janus R. Nielsen, gives tips on what to watch out for to avoid being cheated so you can get a safe start on the new year.
“Scan here and get something extra” is a common text next to the bar code in many magazines and newspapers. When you scan the code, a link opens in your smartphone’s browser and this link could potentially install viruses and other malicious programs on your phone. But why even worry about it, because what is the advantage of these QR codes?
Security expert Janus R. Nielsen from MYMobileSecurity explains: “QR stands for Quick Response, and these codes were originally developed for the automotive industry in Japan, where the bar codes got their big break. A QR code typically contains information such as e-mail address, web address, phone no. and similar information, which you can quickly read onto the phone without having to write a lot. You can also save time by scanning the web pages you visit on your computer when you are looking for new software for your smartphone. ”
QR codes can be an expensive experience
There is a common agreement within the mobile software industry that QR codes will become an equally big hit in Europe as they are in Japan and USA today. It’s a brilliant invention, but unfortunately also an invention that can be exploited by fraudsters. They are beginning to create barcodes that sends the phone on to URLs with malware (APL or JAR files). Last year there was a concrete example of a fake barcode installing malware on the phone by secretly sending text messages to an expensive phone number. The phone was directed to a Trojan virus called Trojan-SMS.AndroidOS.Jifake.f.
Think before you scan
Janus R. Nielsen believes that there is no doubt that the fake QR codes are going to be a problem in 2012 in Europe too. “It is a lucrative market and it may be difficult for the average user to spot a fake tag”. However, he has some tips on what to be at the forefront with. “Look carefully at the link before clicking on it. Does the link match the text in the ad you have scanned? Does the URL in the browser look professional? Be suspicious if it contains many numbers and spaces. Additionally, you should use a password for all the applications that give this option. It is an extra protection against viruses and malware. Last but not least, you should consider installing an antivirus program that protects against unauthorized access to your smartphone via web pages. With a firewall installed, you get warnings every time you are in contact with malicious links and viruses. ”
Tags: malicious links, qr codes
