These days, even if we want to drink tea, we take out our phones and scan the QR code to make the payment. However, thieves have taken advantage of this, and it's called QR code fraud. Recovering money lost through this fraud is extremely difficult. We think QR codes are very safe, but we can't see the cybercrime hidden behind them. Cybercriminals take advantage of this very fact.

After all, how does fraud happen?

A QR code is a square barcode that contains a hidden link or UPI ID. The code itself isn't malicious, but the link behind it can be. Thieves use two methods to commit this fraud. QR code fraud:

The first method is to exchange your QR code at a store. You go to a store. There's a Paytm QR code. What the thief does is paste a fake QR code they created onto it. When you scan it, the money goes into the thief's account, not the store's. Or, you go to a fake website and are asked for your bank details. When you enter them, your bank account goes down.

Second type – This is the most common. You get a call or message. “You have got a cashback of Rs 5000”, “You have won the lottery”, “I am calling from OLX, I want to buy your stuff, I will send you the money”. Then they send you a QR code and ask you to scan it and enter the UPI PIN to receive the money. This is where everyone gets fooled. RBI says that you never need to scan a QR to receive money and you also don't need to enter a PIN. The PIN is required only when sending money. If you enter the PIN to receive the money, the money will be deducted from your account.

What is quishing?
Quishing is a combination of QR and phishing. When you scan that fake QR, it can inadvertently inject a virus into your phone. The virus steals all your passwords and OTPs from your phone and sends them to the thief's server. You can't even tell, and your account is down.

So how to read it?
If you keep a few things in mind, you will not fall prey to scams. Check the name – After scanning the QR, see whose name is displayed on your phone. Check if it matches the name of the shop or not. If a different name appears, cancel it immediately. Remember the PIN rule – This is the most important rule. You never need a PIN to receive money. Do not give it even if someone asks for it. Do not touch any unknown QR – Do not scan any QR displayed on WhatsApp, Telegram. Do not fall into the trap of lottery or cashback.

Keep your apps updated – Google Pay, PhonePe, BHIM, whatever you use, always keep them updated. They come with new security features. What if you get scammed? If you accidentally get scammed, don't panic, but take immediate action. The first hour is crucial; it's called the golden hour. Immediately call 1930. This is the cyber helpline number. And go to the government website cybercrime.gov.in and complain. If you complain quickly, the police can stop your money. Finally, I would like to say one thing: technology is good, but keep your eyes open when using it. Think twice before scanning. Don't scan even if you have the slightest doubt.