As technology continues to evolve, so do the methods cybercriminals use to exploit it. One such method is quishing, a term derived from QR code phishing. Quishing is a growing cybersecurity threat, leveraging the widespread use of QR codes for malicious purposes. In this article, we’ll explore what quishing is, how it works, its impact on individuals and businesses, real-world examples, and how to protect yourself from falling victim to this sophisticated scam.

What is Quishing?

Quishing refers to phishing attacks that use QR codes to direct victims to fraudulent websites or trick them into revealing sensitive information. QR codes, short for Quick Response codes, have become increasingly popular in everyday life, from restaurant menus to contactless payments and marketing campaigns. Their convenience makes them appealing to businesses and consumers alike, but it also opens the door to exploitation by cybercriminals.

For a deeper dive into phishing trends, visit Phishing.org.

How Does Quishing Work?

Quishing typically involves the following steps:

Creation of Malicious QR Codes: Attackers generate QR codes that link to fake websites, malicious files, or exploitative software downloads.

Distribution of QR Codes: These codes are placed in locations where they are likely to be scanned, such as posters, leaflets, emails, or even tampered with on legitimate advertisements.

Execution of the Attack: Once scanned, the QR code directs the victim to a harmful destination, such as a phishing website that mimics a trusted entity. The victim may unknowingly provide sensitive information, such as login credentials or payment details.

To understand how attackers exploit QR codes, check the National Cyber Security Centre’s Blog on QR Code Threats.

Examples of Quishing in Action

Fake Parking Tickets

Cybercriminals have been known to leave fake parking tickets on cars with a QR code for “paying fines.” Unsuspecting drivers scan the code and are directed to a fraudulent payment portal where their credit card details are stolen.

Phishing Emails with QR Codes

A common quishing tactic involves sending phishing emails containing QR codes. For example, an email claiming to be from a bank may ask recipients to scan a QR code to verify their account. Scanning the code leads to a fake login page where attackers harvest credentials.

For examples of phishing emails and how to spot them, visit KnowBe4.

Tampered Marketing Materials

Attackers sometimes place malicious QR codes over legitimate ones on posters, flyers, or even restaurant menus. For instance, a customer might scan a tampered code on a menu, thinking it leads to a food order page, but instead, it downloads malware onto their phone.

Fake COVID-19 Test or Vaccine Sites

During the pandemic, cybercriminals exploited QR codes by directing people to fake websites for booking COVID-19 tests or vaccinations. These sites often asked for sensitive personal and financial information.

Impact on Individuals

For individuals, quishing poses several risks:

Identity Theft: Cybercriminals can use stolen personal information to commit fraud or impersonate the victim.

Financial Loss: Victims may unknowingly transfer funds to attackers or share payment details, leading to theft.

Device Compromise: In some cases, scanning a malicious QR code can lead to malware installation, compromising the victim’s device and data.

Business Implications of Quishing

For businesses, quishing can have serious consequences:

Data Breaches: If employees fall victim to quishing, sensitive company data may be exposed.

Reputational Damage: Customers may lose trust in businesses perceived to be linked to phishing scams, even indirectly.

Financial Costs: Addressing the fallout from quishing attacks can be expensive, including legal costs, fines, and investment in enhanced cybersecurity measures.

Learn more about business cybersecurity threats at the National Cyber Security Centre.

Data Security Concerns

Quishing is particularly dangerous because QR codes are often trusted implicitly. Unlike a suspicious-looking email link, QR codes are visually non-descriptive, making it difficult to detect malicious intent. This creates a significant security blind spot, as users may not think twice before scanning a QR code in a public or professional setting.

Common Targets of Quishing

Individuals

Those unfamiliar with phishing tactics or who regularly use QR codes are common targets. For example, a commuter scanning a QR code on a public transit poster advertising a “special discount” might inadvertently be directed to a phishing page, risking the compromise of their personal data.

Small Businesses

With limited cybersecurity resources, small businesses are often unaware of quishing threats. An attacker might place malicious QR codes on promotional materials at a small café, leading customers to fake payment portals or malware downloads, resulting in customer distrust and reputational damage.

For small business cybersecurity advice, check out the National Cyber Security Centre’s guide for Small Business Cyber Security.

Large Corporations

Attackers target employees within large organisations to gain access to internal systems. For instance, an employee might scan a QR code on a tampered HR flyer that redirects them to a fraudulent login page, giving attackers entry to the corporate network.

Healthcare and Financial Sectors

These industries are prime targets due to the sensitive nature of their data. A healthcare employee might scan a QR code on a seemingly legitimate email about patient records, unknowingly exposing critical patient information. Similarly, financial sector employees are often targeted to access customer accounts or internal systems.

For more on sector-specific threats, see Infosecurity Magazine.

How to Prevent Quishing

For Individuals:

Verify the Source: Only scan QR codes from trusted and verified sources.

Use a QR Code Scanner with Previews: Opt for apps that show the destination URL before proceeding.

Check for Tampering: Inspect physical QR codes for signs of alteration.

Be Cautious with Emails: Avoid scanning QR codes in unsolicited emails or messages.

For personal tips on cyber hygiene, visit Action Fraud’s Stay Safe Online Guide.

For Businesses:

Employee Training: Educate employees about quishing and the importance of verifying QR codes.

Secure QR Code Use: Ensure all QR codes used by your business are legitimate and clearly branded.

Monitor and Respond: A company might deploy a phishing detection system that scans network traffic for signs of malicious activity. For instance, if an employee scans a harmful QR code and attempts to access a phishing site, the system can block the connection and alert the IT department immediately.

For advanced threat detection, check out Cisco Talos.

Update Policies: Include QR code security in your overall cybersecurity policies.

Conclusion

Quishing is a rapidly evolving threat that capitalises on the convenience and ubiquity of QR codes. By understanding how it works, recognising real-world examples, and taking proactive measures, individuals and businesses can protect themselves from falling victim to these attacks.

For more information on cybersecurity best practices, visit:

National Cyber Security Centre (UK)
Action Fraud

Stay vigilant, and don’t let convenience compromise your security.