Warning: QR Code Scam Hits Greater Manchester
Greater Manchester Police have issued a stark warning after spotting a sharp rise in QR code fraud across the region. In just one week, the force recorded three separate cases where fake QR codes were used to trick the public.
How The Scam Works
QR codes exploded in popularity during the pandemic, offering quick access to websites by simply scanning with a smartphone. But crooks are now cashing in. Fraudsters are slapping fake QR code stickers over genuine ones, especially on parking meters and in car parks.
A police spokesperson explained: “The fake QR code will take users to a genuine-looking payment site to steal personal information and, in some instances, financial details. If something doesn’t look right and the sticker looks out of place, type in the URL manually to ensure you reach the correct website.”
Stay Safe: Police Tips
- Check for Tampering: Examine QR codes closely before scanning. Warn if the sticker looks odd or out of place.
- Use Official URLs: Wherever possible, avoid scanning and manually type in website addresses.
- Verify Before You Pay: Confirm the website is secure and legitimate before entering any personal or payment details.
If you suspect you’ve been targeted or fallen victim to QR code fraud, report it immediately to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cyber crime reporting centre.
Police On The Case
Greater Manchester Police continue to monitor the situation closely and are taking steps to clamp down on these scams. They urge the public to stay alert and protect themselves from this sneaky new threat.
