What Is a QR code?
Ever seen those funky, square barcodes on posters or products or even in an email or website? That’s a QR code!
You can scan it with your phone to visit a website, download a file, or even add an event to your calendar. They’re super handy and can be found everywhere, from business cards to snack bags. (We even have one for our special offer below.) But they are not all sugar and spice and can be harmful.
How Cybercriminals Use QR Codes
Sadly, cybercriminals can use QR codes just like phishing links. They can create malicious QR codes that lead to harmful websites or download malware onto your device. These fake codes can be shared via email, social media, or even printed on flyers and stickers.
Tips to Safely Use QR Codes
- Be cautious: Don’t scan QR codes from unknown or sketchy sources. If it promises a free iPhone, it’s probably a scam!
- Use a scanner app: Choose one that shows a preview of the link before you open it. This helps you decide if it’s safe.
- Trust your instincts: If the URL looks weird, asks for a login, or seems unrelated, close your browser right away.
QR codes are handy, but one quick scan can cause big trouble. IT Radix is here to help with practical cybersecurity guidance to keep your team safer. Reach out to IT Radix anytime to help your business scan smarter and stay safer!
First published in our July 2026 IT Radix Resource newsletter