What is a QR Code Phishing (Quishing)?
How It Works — Step by Step
- Malicious QR code placed over legitimate ones (parking meters, posters, menus)
- Or sent via email claiming to be from bank, delivery service, or government
- When scanned, redirects to convincing fake website
- Victim enters credentials, payment info, or downloads malicious app
- Some QR codes trigger automatic actions like Wi-Fi connections or payment requests
Top Countries (Victims)
Top Platforms Used
⚠️ Warning Signs
- QR code sticker placed over another (check for layering at parking meters)
- Unexpected email with only a QR code attachment
- QR code in an email claiming urgent action required
- Scanned URL looks slightly wrong (paypa1.com instead of paypal.com)
- Website asks for sensitive information immediately after scanning
✅ How to Protect Yourself
- Preview the URL before opening after scanning — most QR apps show the destination
- Check physical QR codes for sticker tampering
- Be skeptical of QR codes in unexpected emails
- Type important URLs directly rather than scanning
- Use a QR scanner app that shows the URL before opening
Real Cases from Our Database
WARNING: New WhatsApp QR Code Scam targeting students/friends for ₹60! (Don't fall for this) [removed]...
Scammer called me and said he is from Amazon and asked for verification code, Please help i was sleep when then this person called me and asked for verification code and said that i received an order ...
[US] Alan Jackson Backstage Passes Scam So I obviously know this is a scam and as far as im aware my grandma didnt give this person any money but she wants to make a trip over there using this as her ...
Illuminati invite update My curiosity got the best of me. The person reached out via TikTok and I sent my WhatsApp QR code. I used the “Online Scam” flair but not really sure....
Scam alert. Send money on qr code due to technical problem with payment. Yesterday, I ordered something from man matters. Today I received a call from someone pretending to be from shiprocket. Told me...
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Can someone tell me how they got my order details? Was leak from man matters or courier...
Brushing Scam or Something Creepy? Random Hair Extensions Keep Getting Sent to My House Over the last 6 months, I’ve been randomly receiving packages at my house through UniUni (the courier that usual...
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This is now the 4th package I’ve received. There’s no brand name, no company info, no QR code, not...
📋 Where to Report QR Code Phishing (Quishing)
- FTC (reportfraud.ftc.gov)
- FBI IC3 (ic3.gov)
- Anti-Phishing Working Group ([email protected])