The fresh method of fraud, which gained popularity in Germany, reaches Poland. Talk about quishing, i.e. fraud involving exploitation false QR codes to extort individual data or financial resources. What precisely is this course of action and how can we defend ourselves from fraud?
Quishing – a fresh form of fraud from Germany
Quishing is simply a modern version of phishing in which criminals usage QR codes alternatively of fake emails or websites. After scanning specified code, the user is redirected to a website that looks like the authoritative website of the parkomat operator, chargers for electrical cars or another payment systems. In fact, it is. a prepared website to extort individual and banking data.
In Germany first cases of quishing reported in Dortmund, where the scammers glued dozens of parking meters with false QR codes. Nothing unconscious drivers scanned them and switched to fake pages, entering the data of their payment cards, leading to their immediate takeover by criminals.
First cases in Poland – false QR codes on parking lots
Fraud, which first appeared in Germany, began to spread across Europe – cases quishing has already been recorded in Italy, Spain, Belgium and France. Unfortunately, In Poland, too, the first applications begin to appear.
In November 2024 false QR codes were observed on many parks in Wrocławwhich directed users to parties allegedly serving parking payments. Fortunately, any of them remained vigilant and reported the substance to the appropriate services.
How Recognize a false QR code?
Criminals apply advanced fraud masking methodsThat's why quite a few people don't realize that he's the victim of extortion. Here. some key tipsHow to admit suspicious QR codes:
- Check the appearance of QR code – if you see that the code sticker does not match the remainder of the device or looks stuck to the first code, Don't scan her..
- Notice the destination page – after scanning the code make certain the URL matches the authoritative operator address. False pages frequently contain typos or different domains.
- Use only authoritative applications – most cities and companies providing parking payments has its own mobile applicationssuch as SkyCash, AnyPark or mPay. It's worth utilizing only them.
- Watch out for encouraging messages – scammers frequently place “Quick payment” or “Duty scan code” information alongside QR codes. Worth it. be careful and verify this information.
If you accidentally scanned the suspect's code and gave your data:
Contact the bank immediately – halt payments and ask to lock the card.
Change passwords to electronic banking – if you entered login data, criminals may effort to access your account.
Call the police. – each study helps fight frauds and increases the chance to halt them.
Polish Services They're just starting to see the problem., but in cities specified as Wrocław or Warsaw parking lot operators and mobile payment systems are already taking safe measures. Some opt for additional QR code labels or implementation of notification systems informing users of possible risks.
To increase security, it is worth reporting any suspicious cases. If you announcement false QR code on the parking lot, charger or another device, notify Police or city guard.
Do not scan random QR codes Always make certain they look original.
Use authoritative applications for mobile payments, e.g. AnyPark, SkyCash, mPay.
Always Verify Page Addresses After scanning the code – pay attention to typos and unusual domains.
If you're a victim of fraud, contact the bank immediately and study the case to the police.
Quishing is relatively fresh but highly dangerous method of fraudwhich may consequence in failure of funds or data theft. hazard awareness and caution are best ways to defend against fraud.
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New wave of fraud: quishing in Poland. Drivers lose all the money from the account
