QR Code Phishing Defense.
One sticker. One poster. One scan.
That’s all it takes for a credential theft or payment fraud.
QR phishing is on the rise and it’s not by accident.
Attackers are shifting away from email to target your phone, where security filters fall short and domain previews are harder to verify.
In 2025, we’ve seen a sharp uptick in QR-based scams like fake parking meter stickers and “track your package” codes that lead to spoofed login pages.
They’re fast, convincing, and built to sidestep everything your email gateway protects.
One scan is all it takes.
QR Code Phishing: Build Habits, Not Just Warnings
Turn everyday scans into second-nature security.
What to do in the moment:
Pause → Preview
Before scanning, check if your phone can preview the destination. If the code’s already scanned, long-press the link and inspect it. Look closely at the domain: misspelled brands, extra characters, or odd endings like .co instead of .com are major red flags.
Verify → Use Official Apps
When it comes to payments parking, utilities, deliveries don’t trust a sticker or flyer. Use the official app or a saved bookmark instead of following an unfamiliar QR code.
Report → Share Fast
If it feels off, report it. Right away.
Your early warning can help stop a scam before it spreads. Make it easy to say, “This looks weird” no judgment, just shared vigilance.
QR Phishing Defense, What to set up this week
“Scan-or-Skip?” Drill
Grab three QR examples one real, two risky. Ask your team: which one would you trust? Why? Build pattern recognition through discussion, not fear.
Parking & Package PSA
Pin a quick reminder: “Don’t scan QR codes on meters or surprise deliveries. Use the app.” Simple, visual, easy to remember.
Passwordless Push
Where you can, shift critical logins to phishing-resistant authentication (FIDO/WebAuthn). That one move can blunt the impact of a bad scan.
What’s Happening Out There
Malicious QR Codes Are Everywhere
In Q2 2025 alone, over 635,000 unique malicious QR codes were detected and 1.7 million+ in the six months prior.
Scams in the Wild
QR stickers placed on parking meters and signage have scammed drivers and harvested payments. Consumer alerts are ongoing.
FBI Warnings Continue
Law enforcement has flagged suspicious QR codes on unsolicited packages—designed to steal login credentials or push malware.
Final Takeaway
You can’t filter a scan.
But you can build habits that pause, preview, verify and report.
That one extra second?
It could be your strongest layer of defense.
Want a ready-to-use “QR Spot Check” drill for your team?
Let’s connect we’ll walk you through a short rollout plan tailored to your workflows. No pressure, just prevention.