How QR codes work and what makes them dangerous

The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of QR codes, which are graphical representations of digital information that users can scan with smartphones or other devices. However, it is essential to be aware of the security risks that accompany their usage. The Federal Trade Commission reiterated in December the potential dangers of scanning codes from unfamiliar sources.

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QR codes serve various purposes, particularly in minimizing physical interactions. They are commonly employed for sharing restaurant menus, signing up for lists, distributing sales information on cars and homes, and checking in at medical or professional appointments.

Similar to bar codes, which cashiers scan to retrieve product information, QR codes function on a more advanced level. While bar codes encode data along a single axis (horizontally), QR codes store data on both vertical and horizontal axes. This dual-axis storage enables them to contain a far greater volume of information, enhancing their versatility.

Components of a QR Code

Humans may read Arabic numerals easily, but computers find it challenging. Bar codes convert alphanumeric data into a pattern of black and white lines of varying widths to indicate product identification numbers. Notably, bar codes have built-in redundancy, so even if a portion is damaged, devices can still interpret the product ID.

QR codes, on the other hand, are designed for scanning with a camera, such as those on smartphones. Many camera applications for both Android and iOS already have QR code scanning capabilities. While QR codes are typically used to link to websites, they can also represent diverse data types, including text and images.

Upon scanning a QR code, the camera's QR reader interprets the code, triggering specific actions based on the contained information. If it holds a URL, a prompt will appear, allowing you to open the link in your phone's default browser.

QR codes include several elements: data, position markers, quiet zones, and optional logos. The data consists of a collection of dots arranged on a square grid, where each dot correlates to a '1' and each blank space indicates a '0' in binary code. This structure allows QR codes to encode numbers and characters, including URLs. The minimum grid size is 21 rows by 21 columns, and it can extend to a maximum of 177 rows by 177 columns. Although conventional QR codes use black squares against a white background for clarity, variations with different colors and shapes are also possible.

Position markers, found in the top-left, top-right, and bottom-left corners of a QR code, help devices orient the code correctly during scanning. Surrounding this is a quiet zone to signify where the QR code starts and ends. Additionally, logos can be incorporated into the center without interfering with the data due to redundancy.

Are There Risks Associated with QR Codes?

While QR codes themselves are not inherently dangerous, they can pose certain risks. Just as clicking on unverified links in emails can be hazardous, scanning URLs embedded in QR codes can also lead to various security threats.

For instance, a QR code may direct you to a phishing site that attempts to harvest your login credentials. In other cases, a legitimate website can be manipulated to execute harmful actions, such as granting unauthorized access to your account. While such vulnerabilities require flaws in the websites, they are not uncommon.

A compromised URL might also open applications on your device automatically, much like when you click a Zoom link that joins you to a meeting. Although this is typically harmless, malicious links could exploit this feature to access your sensitive information.

It's crucial to ensure that any link accessed via a QR code is safe and originates from a trusted source. Just because a QR code displays a recognizable logo doesn't guarantee that the underlying URL is secure.

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Moreover, there is a slight risk that the application used to scan QR codes may contain a vulnerability that allows malicious codes to take control of your device merely by being scanned. To mitigate this risk, always use credible applications recommended by your device's manufacturer instead of downloading third-party QR scanning apps.

Safety Precautions When Using QR Codes

• Be cautious before trusting a QR code. Assess the source—are the poster, restaurant, or website reliable?
• After scanning, carefully review any prompts or links before proceeding. Make sure you are comfortable with where the link will take you.
• Keep your mobile device updated with the latest operating system to maintain security features.
• You generally do not need special apps to decode QR codes; your device's built-in camera should suffice. Be suspicious of requests for specialized QR code scanning apps.
• Exercise caution before providing personal information to any website accessed via a publicly visible QR code.

QR codes offer a convenient way to access various information and features. By following simple safety measures, you can use them effectively and securely.

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