HMRC Issues Urgent QR Scam Warning Amid Surge in Personal Data Theft
HMRC Sounds Alarm on New QR Code Scam
In a bid to safeguard the public, HMRC is urging businesses to be vigilant against a new scam involving QR codes, highlighting that fraudsters are exploiting these codes to steal personal information. This latest scam specifically targets businesses, inviting them to scan a QR code. HMRC unequivocally states that they never direct users to pages where personal information is to be entered.
QR Code Usage by HMRC
HMRC utilizes QR codes in two distinct ways. Firstly, they are employed in letters and correspondence to direct individuals to guidance available on GOV.UK. In cases where the QR code leads elsewhere, HMRC explicitly informs the recipient. Additionally, QR codes are used to facilitate secure login procedures. When users are logged into their HMRC account, QR codes may be employed to redirect them to external platforms, such as their bank’s login page.
Phishing Countermeasures and Reporting
To combat phishing scams, HMRC encourages individuals to report any suspicious emails containing QR codes to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk before deleting them. Recent research conducted by NordVPN revealed that a significant proportion of Britons, approximately 72%, do not verify QR codes prior to scanning them. Only 16% of respondents acknowledged being aware of potential QR scams. Alarmingly, over three million people have been redirected to untrustworthy websites after scanning a QR code, resulting in personal data theft for 16% of those individuals.
Cybersecurity Precautions
Marijus Briedis, NordVPN’s Chief Technology Officer, emphasized the importance of exercising caution when using QR codes. He advises verifying the legitimacy of the source and cross-checking with the venue to confirm its authenticity. Additionally, he recommends using a dedicated QR code scanning app for enhanced security measures, as these apps often possess the ability to detect malicious sites or software. Briedis further urges users to refrain from providing personal information and to immediately exit if a QR code redirects to an unrelated or suspicious website.
By adhering to these precautions, individuals can harness the convenience of QR codes while minimizing their exposure to cyber threats. Vigilance remains paramount in safeguarding personal data from fraudulent actors.
