Phishing – don’t fall for internet scammers!

Avoid scanning unknown codes: Never scan QR codes that you receive in unexpected emails, SMS messages (even if they appear to come from a company you know), or those found in suspicious public places.

Verify the authenticity of the code: If you see a QR code in a store, restaurant, parking meter, or on a poster, always check if it has not been tampered with, covered with another sticker, or manipulated in any way. If in doubt, ask an employee of the facility about the authenticity of the code.

URL Preview: Use QR code scanners (often built into your phone’s camera or banking app) that display a preview of the URL the code leads to before you actually open it.

Never provide sensitive data: If, after scanning the code, the site immediately asks you for bank login details, credit card numbers, passwords, or other sensitive personal data – leave the site immediately. Legitimate companies rarely ask for such data via QR codes.

Do not download unknown applications: Do not allow the download or installation of an application after scanning a QR code unless you are 100% sure of its source (e.g., an official app store).