What is QR code phishing?

Quishing: QR Code Phishing Attacks

Introduction

QR code phishing, also known as Quishing, is a cyber threat that leverages the trust users place in QR codes. These codes, often scanned through smartphones, are commonly used to exchange information, process payments, or guide users to websites. Attackers exploit this trust to conduct phishing attacks.

Methods of QR Code Exploitation

• Attackers distribute malicious QR codes through emails, text messages, social media, and public spaces.
• Fraudsters may trick victims into making payments by transferring money to cryptocurrency wallets via QR codes.
• Victims are sometimes directed to cryptocurrency ATMs to deposit funds, using QR codes to fill in the scammer's wallet address.

Image sourced from socpub.com

How Quishing Works

Creation and Distribution of Malicious QR Codes

Cybercriminals generate QR codes that direct users to fake websites or download malware. These codes may be distributed through social media, emails, or public stickers over legitimate codes.

Phishing Process

• Users are taken to fake sites and asked to provide sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial data.
• Some attacks download malware onto devices.
• Attackers exploit compromised email accounts to send phishing messages using legitimate infrastructures like Outlook.

These campaigns use QR codes instead of URLs to bypass security tools, making it difficult for email gateways to block them.

Recent Incidents of Quishing

• Recent campaigns targeted industries like energy, finance, manufacturing, and technology.
• Fake Microsoft 365 pages were used to trick users into providing login credentials.

Attackers focus on mobile users, taking advantage of the weaker security protections on mobile devices.

Prevention Strategies

• Increase User Awareness: Educate users about the risks of scanning unknown QR codes.
• Secure QR Code Generation: Ensure that QR codes are generated securely to prevent tampering.
• Verify URLs: Always double-check URLs after scanning a QR code to ensure they are legitimate.
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add a layer of security to frequently targeted platforms.
• Monitor QR Code Campaigns: Regularly check for signs of tampering or misuse.
• Manually Enter URLs: When in doubt, manually type URLs instead of scanning QR codes.

Conclusion

Quishing attacks reflect a calculated shift by cybercriminals to exploit user habits and emerging technologies. The FBI has warned about the risks of QR codes in financial scams. To defend against these threats, businesses and individuals must adopt AI-powered email security solutions, maintain user vigilance, and implement proactive measures like MFA and URL verification.