How do I check if a QR code will do what it is supposed to do.

What the heck is a QR code you ask? I had a bad experience with a fake QR code and I do not want you to have one. The real term is Quishing. It has become one of the most common scams recently. This article will cover it.

noun trademarka machine-readable code consisting of an array of black and white squares, typically used for storing URLs or other information for reading by the camera on a smartphone. QR codes can store about 7,000 digits or around 4,000 characters, including punctuation and special characters. It can also encode information like phone numbers or internet addresses. The arrangement of each QR code varies depending on the information it contains, and that changes the arrangement of its black modules. In other words, Its a small box with a bunch of squigly lines and squares in it. They are arranged so that a special app can translate it.

Important: A QR code can’t be hacked, but a hacker can generate a malicious QR code that sends you to a fake website where they’ll steal your personal data and can track your location, so always try to verify where your QR code originated from. The bigggest problem is that you can’t really read it because it is in code. You need a speecial app to read it and I insist that you use aa QR code reader that does not activate the code.

Hackers preplace and use QR codes to have you send the money or buy things or grab fyour financial information. Do not activate a code until you read it.

Here are five QR code scanner apps that only read QR codes and do not automatically activate them. These apps are designed for simple QR code scanning without triggering actions:

  1. QR Code Reader by Scan: This app is available for both Android and iOS devices. It scans QR codes and provides information without automatically triggering actions.
  2. QR Code Reader and Scanner: This is another straightforward QR code scanner available for both Android and iOS. It allows you to scan QR codes without automatically executing actions.
  3. QR Code Reader by Scan, Inc.: This is an Android app that focuses on reading and displaying QR code content without launching actions.
  4. Quick Scan – QR Code Reader: This iOS app is designed for scanning QR codes and displaying the information contained in the code without activating any automatic actions.
  5. Free QR Code Reader & Barcode Scanner for iPhone: This iOS app is a basic QR code scanner that only reads the code’s content without executing actions.

Please note that while these apps are designed to be non-intrusive and not automatically execute actions, it’s still important to review the information displayed by the app before proceeding to ensure your security and privacy.

Checking a QR code to verify its intended destination or action is a good practice to ensure your security and privacy. Here’s how you can check a QR code:

  1. Use a Secure QR Code Scanner App: To check a QR code, you can use a reputable and secure QR code scanner app on your smartphone or tablet. Many mobile devices come with built-in QR code scanners, but you can also download a trusted QR code scanner app from your device’s app store.
  2. Scan the QR Code: Open the QR code scanner app and scan the QR code by pointing your device’s camera at it. The app will read the code and may display the intended action or destination.
  3. Review the Information: Before proceeding, take a close look at the information displayed by the app. It should provide details about the action the QR code will perform or the destination it will take you to. Ensure the information matches your expectations.
  4. Check the URL: If the QR code is intended to take you to a website, review the URL to make sure it’s spelled correctly and is related to the expected website. Be cautious of misspelled or suspicious URLs.
  5. Be Cautious: If the information displayed seems unusual or unexpected, or if the URL appears suspicious, do not proceed. It’s better to be cautious and avoid scanning the QR code if you have any doubts about its authenticity.
  6. Don’t Enter Personal Information: Do not enter personal or sensitive information into websites or forms linked from QR codes unless you are certain of their legitimacy.
  7. Verify the Source: If you receive a QR code from an unknown source, it’s best to be cautious. Only scan QR codes from trusted and reputable sources.
  8. Update Your Device and Apps: Make sure your device’s operating system and QR code scanner app are up to date with the latest security patches to reduce vulnerabilities.

Remember that QR codes can link to various types of content, such as websites, apps, contact information, or Wi-Fi networks. Always exercise caution when scanning QR codes to ensure your online safety and privacy.


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