Are you scanning the QR code at the cash register? You could lose all your money! Urgent Communication for Poles

In 2025, the convenience of non-cash payments reaches fresh peaks, and with it the wave of sophisticated fraud grows. QR codes, which have become ubiquitous in shops, restaurants or even in public transport, are now a fresh field for cyber criminals. Experts inform you of an urgent threat: a fresh kind of fraud that can deprive you of all savings in a flash. If you regularly scan QR codes at the box office or at another service points, you request to know how to admit the trick before it's besides late. This is not a distant threat – it is simply a reality that already affects thousands of Poles today.

How does the fresh QR code scam work? The “cap” mechanics clears accounts

The latest method of fraud, which was identified in Poland in early 2025, is based on a simple but highly effective mechanics of "cap". Criminals usage physical stickers with false QR codes that are perfectly matched and placed on first codes for payment or verification. They are most frequently found in places with advanced traffic, specified as supermarkets, petrol stations, parking lots and parcel reception points. Like an unconscious customer, wanting to make a payment or confirm a service, he scans a false code, reasoning he uses a legal service.

What happens next? Scanning a counterfeit QR code can lead to respective scenarios, each of which is equally dangerous. The most common user is redirected to a phishing page that resembles a real bank website or payment operator. There, under the pretext of transaction authorization, logging into electronic banking, payment card numbers, and even CVV/CVC codes are extorted. In another cases, scanning may install malware on a smartphone that monitors user activity in the background or allows unauthorized transactions. The effect is one: losing control of your own finances and clearing your account.

Who's most at risk? mark of con men in 2025

Cyber criminals mark a wide scope of victims, but any groups are peculiarly vulnerable. Older people, little acquainted with fresh technologies, they are frequently victims due to little awareness of the risks and difficulties in verifying authenticity. However, they are equally susceptible Young, busy consumerswho in a hurry, without paying attention to the details, scan the codes without thinking. The deficiency of time to thoroughly check the code and URL are perfect conditions for cheaters. According to CERT Poland, in the first 4th of 2025 There was a 150% increase in QR fraud reports compared to the same period of the erstwhile year, which shows an expanding scale of the problem.

Cheaters besides exploit assurance in known brands and institutions. Posters appear on payment codes in large commercial networks, on information posters in offices or on parking tickets. Wherever we anticipate authentic code and quick, seamless interaction. Psychology of haste and trust is crucial to the success of these attacks. In 2025, faced with the expanding usage of QR codes to everything – from payment, through loyalty programs, to access to information – every smartphone user becomes a possible target.

How do you admit a false QR code? applicable guidance for consumers

Awareness and vigilance are crucial to effectively defend your finances from fresh fraud. Here are any applicable tips to aid you admit the counterfeit QR code:

• Look closely at the code: Always pay attention to whether the QR code does not look like a sticker. False codes are frequently somewhat curved, have air bubbles under the foil, are shiny in a different way than the substrate, or simply stand on the edges. The first codes are usually an integral part of the print.
• Verify URL: After you scan the code before you approve or enter anything, always check the website addressThat you were redirected to. Make certain the domain is correct (e.g. bank, shop) and that the connection is encrypted (the address starts with “https://”). Cheaters frequently usage domains with insignificant typos or additional characters.
• Use trusted applications: If a given store or service has its own application with a built-in QR scanner (e.g. BLIK payment application, loyalty store application), Use it only. Avoid scanning codes with general strategy scanners that do not always verify the authenticity of the mark page.
• The rule of limited trust: If the QR code asks you to supply complete log-in data to the bank, the PESEL number or another delicate information that seems disproportionate to the intent of the payment – quit the transaction immediately. If in doubt, pay in another way or ask the service to verify the code.

What if you were a victim of fraud? Immediate Steps

If, despite caution, you fishy that you scanned the false QR code and your data could have been stolen or an unauthorized transaction occurred, act immediately. all minute counts:

• Contact the bank immediately: Block your payment card and/or block access to electronic banking. Notify the bank of suspicion of fraud. The bank will be able to monitor your account and take appropriate steps.
• Change all passwords: If you have given any login data, immediately change your passwords to banking, email and another crucial services, especially if you usage the same passwords.
• Report the incidental to the police and to CERT Poland: Reporting of a crime is crucial for the initiation of an investigation and the possible recovery of funds. CERT Polska (Computer Emergency consequence Team) collects information on cyber threats and can aid with incidental analysis.
• Monitor your accounts: Check the transaction past regularly in your bank accounts and cards for further weeks to detect any unauthorized operations.

Remember, a fast reaction can minimize losses and aid with the prosecution. Your vigilance and consciousness are the best defence against cyber criminals in 2025.