Warning! Thieves Have a New Tool to Try to Steal Your Identity
Next time you sit down at a table in a restaurant or walk into a store, think twice before automatically scanning the QR code to download the menu or product information. According to the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC), security threats are increasing as this digital barcode becomes more widely used.
Quick Response Codes, or QR Codes, became prominent during the pandemic as efforts were made to reduce touchpoints. QR codes allow for contactless encounters and transactions. The problem is hackers are now using them to embed malicious software. If you scan one of these QR codes you could be allowing hackers to steal data from your mobile device or lead you to a phishing website that could gather your personal information.
Before you scan a QR code, it’s advised that you look to see if it looks like the QR code has been tampered with (for example, a sticker placed over the original source), check the website address of the code, and only scan from trusted businesses.
If you would like to learn more or believe you have been a victim of a QR Code attack, contact the ITRC at 888-400-5530 or use the live chat feature at https://www.idtheftcenter.org/.
The Seniors Trust is committed to providing important information to seniors on how to prevent scams that target their identity or finances, including trying to steal Social Security numbers. We also want Congress to enact The Social Security Expansion Act. It will give retirees an immediate benefits increase of about $200 a month, a fair annual COLA, increase minimum benefits, and ensure the long-term solvency of the Social Security program.
