Les Howard fell victim to a QR code scam while trying to pay for parking, leading to unauthorized monthly charges from his bank account. Reports indicate a 700% increase in QR code-related scams over the past four years, with criminals exploiting the technology's growing prevalence in daily life.
Experts warn that QR codes are being used in various scams, including phishing emails and fraudulent apps, as people often trust them without question. The National Cyber Security Centre advises using built-in phone scanners to avoid potential scams.
As QR code scams rise, users should be vigilant about where they scan codes, especially in public spaces. Watch for updates on security measures from the National Cyber Security Centre and consider using built-in phone scanners to minimize risk.