Unexpected gifts with QR codes: how to protect yourself from this social engineering scam

As technology continues to advance, social engineering techniques are becoming more refined and sophisticated in attempts to exploit or steal from people. One of the latest digital threats involves sending surprise gifts containing malicious QR codes. 

The concept is simple, but the result is devastating. By scanning the code, the victim grants access to the cybercriminal, who compromises their device and steals valuable information. 

In this article, we'll provide details on this particular scam, how it takes place, ways to prevent it and the actions to take if you become a victim of this type of deception.

Enjoy the article!

What is this scam?

It has become increasingly prominent, particularly abroad, in countries where QR codes are frequently used for purchases and authentication. 

The scam begins when the victim receives a surprise gift, often at home or at work. Inside the package is a QR code, supposedly used for validating receipt of the gift or activating a special offer relating to it. 

However, when the victim points their camera at the code, they are directed to a malicious platform. Here, a cybercriminal can gain access to the device and exploit confidential data, bank accounts and other sensitive information.

Basically, the con is a very similar process to paying a bank payment slip using an instant payment method and scanning a QR code. But once it's scanned, instead of completing the transaction, the criminal accesses the victim's records.

How does the scam work?

The modus operandi is ingenious and takes advantage of people who trust QR codes. When someone receives an unexpected gift and scans the QR code, they may not consider the risk involved. As soon as it's scanned, the victim can be immediately redirected to a malicious website. 

The trick is well-crafted: the webpage not only appears legitimate, but also includes fake instructions or even an attractive offer to deceive the user.

By granting permissions requested by the webpage or installed application, the victim unknowingly gives the cybercriminal full access to their device, including sensitive data such as photos, contacts and saved passwords.

Once cybercriminals gain remote control of the device, not only can they empty bank accounts, but also steal personal and confidential digital assets that can be used for other crimes, such as identity theft. 

In addition to direct financial losses, compromised data includes sensitive business information, contracts, and private communications, greatly amplifying the impact of the attack.

This combination of direct access to data and the difficulty of detecting this type of threat in time makes this a particularly dangerous scam. The cybercriminal has the potential to exploit the device without the target even realizing it, compromising the integrity and privacy of all stored assets.

How can you protect yourself from this scam?

Protection against this type of scam involves a lot of vigilance and precaution. Here are a few tips on how to protect yourself from it:

1- Don't trust any surprise gifts

If you're not expecting a package, you should question where it came from before opening it. Verify its authenticity with the sender and try to avoid scanning QR codes without secure confirmation.

It's important to note that no company sends items to someone just as a gift without any prior communication.

2- Don’t scan unknown QR codes

Even if the gift looks legitimate, avoid scanning codes from unknown sources. If necessary, enter the URL provided manually to verify its authenticity.

3- Use updated antivirus and firewalls 

Invest in reliable security software that is installed and updated on all your devices. Most of these tools can block malware by detecting suspected intrusion attempts.

4- Control your permissions

When scanning a QR code, pay attention to what permissions are requested by the website. Protect your personal information and privacy by being wary of potentially untrustworthy pages that ask for seemingly unnecessary information, such as your date of birth or your relatives’ names.

What should you do if you're a victim?

If you've scanned a malicious QR code, it's very important to act quickly to minimize the damage. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Disconnect from the internet: as soon as you notice any suspicious access to a device, disconnect it from the Wi-Fi or mobile data network. This may prevent the attacker from further exploiting the device;

• Change your passwords: access a secure device and change all your passwords, starting with those involving confidential bank accounts that you own. Use multi-factor authentication to boost security;

• Constant monitoring: pay attention to any unusual activities involving your credit cards and online profiles. If you notice anything suspicious, get in touch with your financial institution or a consumer protection agency immediately;

• Seek assistance from a professional: if your equipment has been compromised, consider taking your device to a cybersecurity expert or using technical support services to check for the presence of malware and have it removed.

In summary, the scam involving malicious QR codes is a new form of social engineering that takes advantage of people's curiosity and trust to compromise their devices and sensitive information. 

Disguised as unique, unusual gifts, this practice can cause financial losses and expose sensitive data. Being aware of this scam and adopting preventive measures are both essential measures in avoiding becoming a victim of this type of fraud.