If you scan QR codes for online payments, you too may fall prey to scammers. Reports have shown that in many places, people's bank accounts have been emptied while making payments by scanning fake QR codes. This is due to QR codes containing payment requests. Keep in mind that you shouldn't see an option to approve the payment after scanning the QR code. Check the bank's message after making the payment, and if the QR code redirects you to another page within the app, stop the transaction immediately.

The bank accounts of those making payments by scanning QR code are getting emptied.

Today, a large number of people in the country scan QR codes to make online payments. Scammers have now found a way to exploit this very tactic. Reports suggest that in many parts of the country, people's bank accounts are being emptied by scanning QR codes to make payments. Scammers are using QR codes to manipulate these practices. Reports suggest that the use of fake QR codes has increased in alleys and alleys. These codes are being replaced with genuine codes in parking lots and other places where people need to make small payments.

Scammers are replacing genuine payment codes with their own fake QR codes and emptying people's accounts with QR codes that demand large sums of money.

How is fraud happening through QR code?

To understand this scam, you need to know that there are two types of payment QR codes. One, which you scan and then enter the desired amount to make the payment, and the other, which is created for payment requests. These can be created in any UPI app and by scanning them, you can pay only the pre-set amount.

According to the report, ( REF. ) scammers have started replacing the original QR stickers with their fake QR codes at various places. In such a situation, making a hasty payment at any place like parking or tea stall can prove to be very costly.

Fake QR codes leading to fake payment apps

QR codes displayed in public places are also being used to install malware and viruses on people's phones. Reports suggest that in some places, fake QR codes redirect people to genuine payment apps. Upon entering their PIN or OTP on these fake apps, the person making the payment is deducted from their bank account.

Malware being inserted into phones

The network of fraud perpetrated through QR codes is even more extensive. They are also being used to install malware and viruses on people's phones, making it possible for a scammer sitting far away to gain access to their phones. This allows people to easily access everything from their bank accounts to their photo galleries. Therefore, these QR code scans are not only emptying people's bank accounts but also invading their privacy.

Know how to escape

1. First, don't make hasty payments anywhere. Even if you're scanning a QR code, remember that you must enter the amount to make the payment. Fake QR codes don't offer the option to enter the amount and instead take you directly to a PIN entry page.
2. After scanning the QR code, if you see the option to approve any payment, do not approve it and stop the process immediately.
3. After the payment is made, please cross-check the bank's SMS as well.
4. If a QR code tries to take you out of your payment app and onto another page, close it immediately. It could be taking you to a fake payment app or downloading malware onto your phone.

PC:NBT