QR Codes Scanning: NITDA Issues Cautionary Alert To Nigerians
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has issued a cautionary alert advising Nigerians to be wary of scanning QR codes due to the surge in fraudulent activities by scammers.
In its most recent advisory shared on its official X account, the agency underscored the concerning trend of malicious individuals exploiting QR codes for a range of fraudulent activities, such as phishing scams, payment fraud, data theft, and identity theft.
Fraudulent Use Of QR Codes In Scams⚠️
QR codes, while fast and convenient for quick access to information and actions, have unfortunately become a tool exploited by scammers for fraudulent activities. These activities take various forms and are designed to lure unsuspecting… pic.twitter.com/K2BCSrgFUr
— NITDA Nigeria (@NITDANigeria) March 30, 2024
QR codes, recognizable as machine-readable black and white squares, are commonly used for storing URLs or information accessible by smartphone cameras.
The advisory reminds users to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions before scanning QR codes to mitigate the risk of cyber scams.
NITDA revealed fraudsters using various methods to perpetrate illicit activities through QR codes.
Phishing scammers generate QR codes pointing to malicious applications or phishing websites, leading to information theft.
Also Read: NITDA Issues Warning on Browser Privacy Protection
Threat actors embed malware or data-stealing scripts within QR codes to exploit security vulnerabilities in users’ devices. Personal information collected through QR codes in fake advertisements or online surveys can be exploited for identity theft or targeted fraud.
NITDA advises users to be cautious when scanning codes from unfamiliar sources or unsolicited messages and to verify the legitimacy of QR codes and associated links before scanning. They recommend using reputable QR code scanning apps with built-in security features.
To mitigate the escalating threat of cyber hacktivism in 2024, Nigeria must adopt a multi-faceted approach, including investing in advanced security technologies and enhancing the capability of cyber security personnel.
NITDA suggests keeping devices updated with the latest antivirus software and security patches to bolster protection against potential cyber threats for QR code users.
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