A new form of cyber-attacks has been popping up in recent weeks with malware QR codes, once scanned these items can steal different forms of information from the user's device.

QR codes, or quick response codes, became popular in the 2010s. During the pandemic, more people turned to use them in place of things like menus, app downloads, and even payment options. All a person must do is open your phone’s camera app and scan the code presented. From there the thing you need will pop up.

Cybercriminals can tamper with these codes and change the website you are supposed to be visiting. They can redirect your payments, steal log in information, and gain access to the devices you use.

Here are some tips to stay safe:

• Check the URL that you have been taken to. Scamming websites will replace letters in the legitimate URL with numbers.
• Never download a QR code scanner; they often times lead to malware being downloaded on your device. A smartphone is equipped to read QR Codes by using the camera.
• If you receive a QR code in an email from a company that you recently paid, reach out to them via phone to confirm it was from them. Always visit a credible site to find contact information.
• If you are scanning a physical code, check to make sure a sticker has not been placed over the original QR code.