With the growing use of the internet, cases of online scams and fraud have increased in recent months. Cyber fraud involving QR codes has also been reported. If you make online payments, it’s important to be very careful. Always verify the QR code before making a payment.
In the era of digital payments, QR codes are the most commonly used method for transactions. From e-rickshaws to large malls, payments are often made through QR codes. Due to their widespread use, scammers and cyber criminals have started using QR codes to trick people. If you use QR codes for making or receiving payments, you need to stay cautious.
Recently, an incident in Madhya Pradesh highlighted how scammers used fake QR codes to trick people. This makes it important to always verify QR codes before making payments. If you’re careless, scanning a QR code could be harmful to you.
Stay Alert to Fraud
In the Madhya Pradesh incident, fake QR codes were placed on petrol pumps and several shops. Anyone who scanned these codes and made a payment had their money transferred directly to the scammers’ account. In this type of online fraud, scammers also steal the customer’s details. So, it’s important to be cautious while making online payments.
Real vs Fake QR Codes
Most QR codes look very similar, so it’s important to verify whether they are real or fake when making online payments. To stay safe from fake QR codes, you should use a sound box. If the money reaches your account, the sound box will notify you.
When scanning a QR code for payment, always verify the name that appears on the screen with the shop owner or the person you’re paying. This way, you’ll know the real recipient’s name.
If you have any doubts about a QR code, scan it with Google Lens. This will help you see where the QR code redirects, ensuring it’s safe.
In today’s digital payment era, online fraud cases are rapidly increasing, with cybercrimes and scams being reported daily. It’s crucial for everyone to be very careful when making online payments to avoid any losses. If you make payments carelessly and don’t pay attention, you could easily fall victim to scammers. By following the tips mentioned above, you can protect yourself from these fraudsters and easily identify real and fake QR codes.
