As technology advances, so do the tactics of cybercriminals. One of the latest methods they employ is QR code phishing, often referred to as “quishing.” This article explores the dangers of quishing, backed by current statistics and real-life examples that may be pertinent to both our clients and staff.

The Surge in Quishing Attacks

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of QR codes has surged due to their convenience for contactless transactions and information sharing. However, this rise in popularity has also made them an attractive target for cybercriminals. According to the 2024 Phishing Threat Trends Report by Egress, QR code phishing attacks have increased dramatically. In 2021, QR codes were used in only 0.8% of phishing attacks. This figure jumped to 12.4% in 2023 and has stabilized at 10.8% in early 2024​ (Egress Email Security)​.

How Quishing Works

Quishing typically involves embedding malicious QR codes in emails, social media posts, or physical prints. When scanned, these codes can lead to fraudulent websites designed to steal login credentials, personal information, or even install malware on the user’s device. For example, a campaign observed by Cisco in late 2023 involved phishing emails containing QR codes that redirected users to fake Microsoft Office 365 login pages. These pages harvested the users’ credentials, compromising their accounts​ (TechRadar)​.

Real-Life Impacts

Several high-profile cases have highlighted the dangers of QR code phishing. One notable instance involved executives being targeted with QR code phishing attacks 42 times more frequently than average employees, underscoring the risks to high-value targets​ (Egress Email Security)​. Additionally, the healthcare sector has been significantly impacted, prompting the Health Sector Cybersecurity Coordination Center to issue a white paper on QR-based phishing threats​ (HIPAA Journal)​.

Protecting Yourself and Your Organization

To mitigate the risk of quishing attacks, it’s crucial to adopt a multi-layered security approach. Here are some recommended practices:

  1. Educate Employees: Conduct regular training sessions to raise awareness about the risks associated with scanning unknown QR codes. Emphasize recognizing phishing emails and suspicious links.
  2. Use Endpoint Security Solutions: Ensure that all devices, especially mobile ones, are equipped with robust security software to detect and prevent malware infections.
  3. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA can provide an additional layer of security, making it more difficult for attackers to access accounts even if credentials are compromised.
  4. Verify Before Scanning: Encourage employees and clients to preview the link associated with a QR code before scanning it. Many QR code scanners provide this functionality, which can help identify malicious URLs.

Conclusion

QR code phishing is a growing threat that exploits the very convenience that makes QR codes popular. By staying informed and implementing strong security measures, businesses and individuals can better protect themselves from these sophisticated attacks. For more detailed information and the latest updates on quishing trends, refer to the Egress Phishing Threat Trends Report and other cybersecurity resources.

By remaining vigilant and proactive, we can safeguard our digital environments from the evolving landscape of cyber threats. Stay safe and informed!